NMRC Meeting: August 19,2009

NMRC Meeting: August 19^th

The New Mexico Racing Commission met on August 19^th, 2009 in Sante Fe. The following was discussed:

Race Dates: Ruidoso Downs amended their proposed 2010 race dates from 49 days to 60 days. The NMHA agrees with these dates, but all race dates were tabled until a special NMRC meeting on September 9, 2009 to be held in Albuquerque. More information on this meeting will be posted as it is available.

Raton: The principals of Raton presented testimony to the New Mexico Racing Commission. The principals  stated that Racing at Raton will be ready for racing in 2010. Raton plans to  hold a 60 day meet, to commence Labor Day and finish on Memorial Day. Progress, however, is slow. Dirt is just to the point of being moved.

Toe Grabs: The Toe Grab rule for racing quarter horses has been eliminated. There is no limit on the toe grab length of the front shoes of racing quarter horses.

The toe grab length on the front shoes of racing thoroughbreds is 2mm. Consult your shoer for more details.

Clenbuterol: Beginning September 15^th, a new Clenbuterol level will be in effect. The new level for Clenbuterol is 5ng in urine and 0.5 ng in blood. If both tests show the Clenbuterol level to be over the legal limit, a positive results. Please consult your vet.

Appeals: effective in approximately 60 days (from 8/19/2009), the cost of appealing both a race infraction and a rules violation will be $500. This fee is non-refundable. The NMHA opposed these increases.

Trainer’s License: effective in 60 days (from 8/19/2009), both the New Mexico Racing Commission and the Gaming Control Board will have the right to investigate any and all applicants for a trainer or owner’s license. In addition, all Trainers’ Tests administered by the NMHA will be witnessed by a steward.

Jockeys: The Jockey’s Guild has presented a request for an increase in the Jockey’s Mount Fees. This information will be posted shortly for your consideration.

Finally, the Legislative Finance Committee that looks at rural economic impact will meet in  the Tome Community Center, 4933 Highway 47 in Los Lunas August 26, at 1:30 to discuss the economic impact of race days on the community. The New Mexico Horsemen’s Association has been invited to attend. More on the site for the meeting will be posted tomorrow.