The future of horse racing in Northern California hangs in the balance after a controversial decision by the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) to reject proposed race dates for 2026. This move has sparked intense debate among industry stakeholders, leaving many to wonder: Can Northern California's racing scene ever be revived?
During a pivotal meeting on February 26 in Arcadia, California, the CHRB denied race date applications from the Tehama District Fair and the Humboldt County Fair, both eager to reignite racing in the region. These fairs had submitted detailed proposals in recent months, aiming to restore a sustainable racing circuit in Northern California. However, here’s where it gets controversial: CHRB staff raised significant concerns about regulatory compliance, financial viability, and operational readiness, which were reiterated during the meeting.
The decision wasn’t unanimous. CHRB Vice Chair Oscar Gonzales and Commissioner Brenda Washington Davis advocated for awarding the dates, citing the importance of expanding racing opportunities in a state grappling with a declining foal population. Gonzales emphasized the cultural and economic significance of horse racing to local fairs and communities. Washington Davis added that statewide support for racing could be crucial if tracks seek authorization for historical horse racing gaming, a potential lifeline for the industry.
But here’s the part most people miss: The majority of commissioners, including Chair Dr. Greg Ferraro, Dennis Alfieri, Damascus Castellanos, and Peter Stern, vehemently opposed the proposals. Ferraro labeled Northern California racing a "no-chance situation," arguing that approving the dates would jeopardize the entire state’s racing industry. "There will come a time when the north is ready for racing, but it’s not right now," he stated bluntly.
The Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) and California Thoroughbred Trainers (CTT) also opposed the proposals, as did representatives from Southern California tracks. According to the TOC, reviving Northern California racing would result in a 5% drop in Southern California purses. Since racing ceased in the north, simulcast revenue has been redirected to Southern California tracks, bolstering their fragile purses in a state without authorized gaming revenue.
Tehama sought nine race days from April 29 to May 26 at Red Bluff, marking its first sanctioned pari-mutuel racing in decades. Humboldt, a historic summer fair staple, requested 12 race dates from August 5 to September 1. However, CHRB staff criticized Humboldt’s application for lacking contractual documentation and unresolved agreements with industry stakeholders.
And this is where it gets even more complicated: A practical concern emerged regarding whether enough horses, trainers, and wagering interest would return to sustain racing in Northern California after a prolonged absence. Many Northern California horsemen have relocated to Southern California with limited success, while others have moved out of state to tracks like Emerald Downs in Washington and Turf Paradise in Arizona. Historically, the Humboldt County Fair in Ferndale has also drawn horses from Oregon.
TOC President and CEO Bill Nader noted that Ferndale’s last races featured short fields, a sign of waning participation. CTT Executive Director Alan Balch added, "It’s become a meeting for largely Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and other horses."
Humboldt’s proposed meet would have coincided with popular summer racing at Del Mar and Saratoga Race Course, a valuable time for simulcast wagering. Yet, the CHRB’s decision underscores the challenges facing Northern California’s racing revival.
What do you think? Is the CHRB’s decision a necessary safeguard for California’s racing industry, or does it unfairly stifle Northern California’s potential? Could historical horse racing gaming be the solution, or is it a risky bet? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
