Source: Paulick Report
The California Horse Racing Board advanced a proposed rule that would ban pin-firing, blistering, and other counterirritant veterinary practices for all horse breeds racing in California. The rule change, already enforced for Thoroughbreds under federal regulations, now enters a 45-day public notice period and could take effect by October 2026.
During its May 13 meeting, the CHRB also approved race meet applications for Los Alamitos and Del Mar. Del Mar announced plans to introduce special “maiden auction races” for horses purchased for less than $150,000 in an effort to boost field sizes and participation among younger horses.
Board members also discussed concerns over FanDuel TV’s planned reduction and eventual elimination of horse racing coverage, warning of potential impacts on industry workers and racing visibility. Additional agenda items included approval of charity fund distributions, wagering facility licenses, simulcast funding requests, and updates on equine injury prevention research from the University of California, Davis.