There is much more to appreciate than to criticize in this year’s horse racing scene. I am particularly thankful for the honest, hardworking individuals in the industry who form the backbone of our sport, along with those committed to meaningful racing reforms and deeply invested in the sport’s future. Despite three years since the introduction of the new federal horse racing system, many questions remain about whether these reforms will endure, which is unfortunate given the many areas needing improvement. Whether you are a gambler, owner, or lobbyist, each has a role to play in reforming rules and advocating for fairer practices and stricter accountability within the industry.
Over the past two years, I have seen my role as helping to counteract the continuous misinformation aimed at undermining trust in the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). I support HISA because I believe it is fundamentally correct and necessary; the industry won’t reform itself as long as misconceptions about the law and its funding persist. While some concerns about HISA are valid, many criticisms are unfounded. It’s surprising and regrettable how successful the opposition has been in keeping basic facts about HISA from voters, even as these federal laws have made racing safer. This mistrust is prevalent despite HISA not yet covering harness racing, and it undermines progress in both Thoroughbred and Standardbred sectors.
For example, Thoroughbred owner and breeder Mike Lepore’s claim that HISA has spent $250 million over three years and feels pressured to “do something” is inaccurate and misleading. In reality, HISA or its executive arm, the Horse Racing Integrity and Welfare Division, have not spent this amount outside of the initial funding. Yet, such false statements affect perceptions negatively, fueled by sensational social media posts. A more balanced perspective comes from Jon Stettin, who supports regulation but criticizes poor regulation. Stettin highlights the need for sensible rules, respect for science, proportionate penalties, and enforcement that can distinguish between different types of substances affecting horses. He believes in uniform standards rather than a patchwork of state rules, which simplifies governance.
There are ongoing challenges, such as those faced by New York trainer Rudy Rodriguez, who might receive a lifetime suspension for failing to ensure lameness evaluations for several horses on veterinarian lists, some of which died afterward. Debates around the accountability of trainers and regulating veterinarians continue, emphasizing the need for clearer communication and follow-up processes. Rodriguez’s defense points to the complexity of control over adopted or transferred horses, illustrating regulatory difficulties. Notably, this case has received little mainstream U.S. media coverage, which I find unfortunate since enforcement transparency is crucial to maintaining public trust and industry integrity.
Regarding another issue, the Delaware Harness Racing Commission’s handling of the “Delaware Seven” case—where horses tested positive for synthetic cannabis—received criticism for its arbitrary outcomes and poor reputation. The commission’s failure to respond to accountability questions further damages the sport’s credibility. On a positive note, recent arbitration involving trainer Antonio Meraz shows progress, with recognition that some doping cases may result from innocuous supplement use, and potential reforms to allow more discretion in penalties are forthcoming.
Lastly, stories like retired racehorses aiding veterans through hippotherapy in Creston, Washington, remind us of the positive social impact horses can have beyond racing. This underscores why maintaining a healthy and regulated sport is vital.
Fan Take: For horse racing fans, these developments highlight the crucial balance between regulation and fairness needed to protect both the horses and the sport’s integrity. How the industry addresses these challenges will shape its future credibility and appeal, making ongoing reform and transparency essential for the sport’s survival and growth.
