FHBPA Supports the Purchase and Sale Of Florida Breds at OBS

Good Day,

Well, we find ourselves entering the summer doldrums that come with racing in South Florida. The sales season at OBS concluded last week and we were again there with a table to pass out condition books and stakes schedules as we worked to support the purchase and racing of Florida Breds. The current purse structure and bonuses make it a very nice payday for a Florida bred win.

Turf racing will return on July 3 and we are seeing extra work performed on the main track with dark Tuesdays in an effort to improve the racetrack in general. Racing will switch from Fridays to Mondays on July 13 for a minimum of 7 weeks. The thought is that with Delmar and Saratoga running, our share of the wagering dollar should favor us versus Parx and Indianapolis on those days. Gulfstream will put out this week the marketing plan that includes their multi race wagering offerings for Mondays.

The major concern here and throughout the industry continues to be the lack of horses available. If you look at the field sizes across the specter you see many 5 and 6 horse fields. Parx, Delaware, Monmouth, Aqueduct, Laurel and Colonial in such close proximity really spread out the available stock in the Mid-Atlantic. Our field size continues to be above average and we appreciate the many trainers and owners who have committed to staying with us during this meet. There is good money to be made with our current purse structure.

Nothing of substance to report as to long term racing venues in Florida but there are any number of rumors floating out there. While that occurs, we will continue to focus on our racing responsibilities. Lastly, the end of the month is rapidly approaching and we encourage all to make sure their license situation is addressed accordingly.
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Thanks,
Tom Cannell
President