BACKGROUND: Last year, the Governor vetoed a bill that would have expanded participation in NYS Sire Stakes to be consistent with other states by permitting only the mare be physically located in NYS for breeding purposes, citing a need to review NY’s Sire Stakes and breeding programs more comprehensively. Now the NYS Agriculture and Breeding Fund is soliciting “feedback regarding the continued success of standardbred racing in New York” and is hosting three “listening sessions”, one right here in Saratoga Springs. We believe the Governor is now also looking for a review of purse structures and industry participants’ revenue, whether the VLT program has worked and is still working, as well as the ‘real’ economic impacts from racing and the effect of attendance and on-track handle. Purse payments to the racing industry could disappear, therefore it is essential that anyone that earns a living in our industry makes their voice heard!
WHO: Owners, trainers, drivers, grooms, veterinarians, farmers & other industry members attend the session March 30th
WHERE: March 30, 2023, 11am- 2pm Saratoga Casino Hotel, Saratoga Springs, NY RSVP: The sessions are free and open to the public. If you plan to attend., send an email by March 28 to info@nysirestakes.com Those looking to submit materials for discussion should also contact the above email address as soon as possible. Additional information can be found at www.nysirestakes.com.