The New Mexico Racing Commission met on May 20, 2009 at SunRay Park in Farmington, NM for their monthly meeting. Included in the agenda were amendments to several racing rules. One such rule, NMRC Rule 16.47.1.12. , was amended in order to make the jockey licensing process more formal. The Horsemen will be included throughout the licensing process.

The NMRC also approved a claiming option entry rule in which a horse that meets the following requirements can be declared ineligible from being claimed: The horse must have been laid off and not started for a minimum of 120 days since his last race. The horse must be entered for a claiming price equal to or greater than the price at last start. A trainer or owner must also make the declaration at the time of entry for the race.

The NMRC also confirmed a new bet: The super High Five Pentafecta with carryover and consolation. The bettor would select the first five finishers in the exact order to win the Pentafecta. If the bet has no winners, the pool carries over to the next day.

Finally, the NMRC lifted the restriction on the ban of cell phones in the winner’s circle. Cell phone use will be prohibited during racing hours in the following areas: behind the starting gate, on the race track surface (racing and training), and the saddling paddock.

The Racing Commission gave conditional approval to Racing at Raton to commence dirt work. The principals of Racing at Raton stated that they would begin the work as soon as possible. On June 16^th, the Gaming Control Board for the State of New Mexico will conduct a further meeting on the gaming license for the principles at Racing at Raton.

The next NMRC meeting is scheduled for Wednesday June 24^th in Raton. Location and time will be announced when available.

As always, if you have questions or comments, call us at 505.266.7056 (office)   505.205.6650 (cell phone), or e-mail us at kirsten.nmha@yahoo.com.