The New York Racing Association Board met on February 27, 2013 in New York City. A continuing topic of discussion was the recruitment efforts for a new Chief Executive Officer to replace Ellen McClain. The board is also focused on industry best practices to protect and promote equine health and safety. An Equine Safety Committee was formed and met prior to the board meeting. One suggested way to improve equine health is to reduce the number of racing days, however, NYRA is currently required by state law to race 95 days at Aqueduct Racetrack from December to April or pay much higher pari-mutuel rates. The committee recommended to the board that NYRA needs to achieve greater flexibility to cancel races that do not fill. As a result, the board passed a resolution to authorize NYRA’s management to take steps to reduce the number of race days, including lobbying the state to enact appropriate legislation.
A three-year work plan was put into place to prepare NYRA for re-privatization. Additionally, the board approved the appointment of NYRA peace officers pursuant to Section 223 of the New York State Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law to serve at the pleasure of the board.
The next scheduled meeting will be held on May 15, 2013 in New York City.