The national HBPA conference, taking place from March 3-7 at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort in Hot Springs, Arkansas, will focus on pressing issues such as the rise of artificial intelligence in horse racing and new challenges posed by prediction markets and gambling.
Other key themes include innovative ideas for racetrack ownership driven by jockeys and participants, updates on the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA), enhancing the sport’s integrity through education and cooperation among officials, and developing second career opportunities for retired racehorses.
Eric Hamelbach, CEO of the NHBPA, emphasized the conference’s mission to delve deeply into critical industry challenges while also highlighting ongoing innovations. He underlined the importance of preparing jockeys for the AI revolution and addressing little-discussed risks from prediction markets that may sidestep regulated betting frameworks. He also noted upcoming special presentations aimed at showcasing the sport’s positive aspects.
Several panel discussions scheduled between March 4 and 6 will include:
Artificial Intelligence on the Track: Moderated by industry veteran Sal Sinatra, this panel will explore practical AI uses such as refining condition books, improving safety monitoring, and enhancing handicap data. Panelists include John Julia (PA Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association), Mark Midland (Horse Racing Nation), Kyle McDoniel (Equibase), and Rick Hammerle (race secretary and track executive).
Prediction Markets and Betting: This session, led by Michele Fisher from SIS Content Services, will examine how trading platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are expanding beyond politics and major sports into betting, potentially threatening traditional race betting and industry revenues. Panelists include horse owner Peter “Holt” Gardiner, Sportsbook Manager Jason Johnston, Ohio HBPA Executive Director Dave Bassler, and Dennis Drazin, CEO of Derby Development/Monmouth Park.
Rethinking Racetrack Ownership: Chaired by Frank Petramaro, this discussion advocates for a future where racetracks are owned and operated by jockeys and participants directly involved in the sport, drawing on models like Nebraska’s. Panelists are Ronnie Powell (Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association), trainer Kenny McPeek, and HBPA Executive Directors Lynn McNally and Ed Fenasi.
HISA: Law, Litigation, and Perspective: A candid examination of the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Act from legal and industry viewpoints, featuring Ed Martin (ARCI), lead HBPA attorney Daniel Soule, horse owner Brent Malmstrom challenging HISA actions, and hosted by horse lawyer Peter Sakopoulos.
Strengthening Integrity through Education and Collaboration: Highlighting the importance of the Horse Racing Official Accreditation Program (ROAP) and Organization of Horse Racing Investigators (ORI) in maintaining regulatory standards, with panelists Don Ahrens (security expert), Christine Werner (Jockey Club advisor), Jason Crozer (PA Horse Racing Board), and ROAP board member Frank Lamb.
After the Finish Line: Discussing the ongoing commitment to lifelong care and career transition for Thoroughbreds after racing, with experts Kristin Werner (Jockey Club), Kirsten Green (Retired Racehorse Project), and Janet Milligan (Arkansas HBPA).
Additional presentations will cover topics such as pari-mutuel gaming technology and honors like the Thoroughbred Industry Employee of the Year award. The conference will close with the annual Kent Stirling Memorial Pharmaceutical Panel and afternoon racing on March 6. Everett Dobson, new Jockey Club president and Oklahoma City Thunder co-owner, will deliver the keynote at the March 4 luncheon, where the 2025 National Claims Horse of the Year, Surprisingly Perfect, will also be recognized.
The event kicks off with a reception on March 3, followed by Executive Committee meetings on March 5 and board sessions on March 7. Interested participants must register by February 18, and media inquiries can be made via racing@hbpa.org.
Originally published by Paulick Report on January 28, 2026.
Fan Take: This conference underscores how rapidly technology and regulatory developments are reshaping horse racing, highlighting both exciting innovations and new challenges. For fans, staying informed about these changes is crucial, as they will directly affect the sport’s integrity, safety, and future sustainability.
