Legislature OKs reduction in racing dates

Standardbred permit holders at both Freehold and the Meadowlands racetracks will be able to decrease the annual number of racing dates with the bill approved unanimously by both the N.J. Senate and Assembly on June 25.

The law permits the Meadowlands to reduce the number of racing dates from 151 to no less than 141 and Freehold from 192 to no less than 168, "upon agreement with [the] representative horsemen's organization."

"We thank Assemblymen Ronald S. Dancer and John J. Burzichelli and Senators Paul A. Sarlo and Jennifer Beck for sponsoring this legislation and shepherding it through their respective house of the Legislature," said Standardbred Breeders & Owners Association of New Jersey President Tom Luchento.

"The reduced racing dates will be subject to the approval of the SBOANJ each year," Luchento explained. "With the current fiscal situation and shortage of horses, it is better to have fewer racing dates. But should we have an infusion of capital from slots or other sources, we will have the option to push for more dates."