Note for Horsemen:

Re:  NMRC Meeting of November 19, 2009

Dear Horsemen:

The NMRC met in open session on November 19, 2009. The Commission,   unanimously decided,  over protest of the Horsemen to make clenbuterol a zero tolerance medication for racing purposes.  Additionally,  the Commission abolished the set levels on clenbuterol.  Clenbuterol can be used for training purposes but must be withdrawn in time so that there is a  zero level present at the time of the race.  Dosing and withdrawal times for the medication must be discussed with your vet.  The penalty for a positive clenbuterol test (Class 3) is up to 180 day suspension,  $1,500 fine and loss of purse.

The effective date for the ban is December 15, 2009.

The NMHA is looking at all options in connection with the ban on clenbuterol.

Piroplasmosis:

The State of New Mexico Livestock  Board will be conducting mandatory testing for a new horse disease called piroplasmosis.  Testing will begin on all horses now stabled at the Downs at Albuquerque beginning on Monday, November 21, 2009.  Piroplasmosis  has been found in horses in Texas and Southern Mexico. The Livestock Board plans to test all horses at  ZIA Park and at Sunland Park during the week of December 1, 2009.  We have not received an official written notice from the Livestock Board but have been informed of the requirement.  Once it is received we will forward copies on to the Horsemen.  Each horse tested will be required to have a coggins report available at testing time to help with identifying the Horse.

For questions please contact Dr. Fly at the Livestock Board  505.841.6161.

Progress at Racing at Raton (La Mesa Park) is going slow.  We should have some photos of the progress at Raton to post on the blog in the very near future.

Thanks to all you who have voted on the jock mount increase.  Voting will remain open until Wednesday, November 25, 2009 close of business.

Please send us an e-mail at kirsten.nmha@yahoo.com.  Our telephone number is 505.266.7057. 

Sincerely,

Pat Bingham