The Award Incentive Fund checks were mailed November 18, 2009.  The total award distribution was $4,460,495.48.  This is a decrease of $73,491.49 compared to 2008.  The award allocation was from September 13, 2008 through September 27, 2009.  This excludes Zia Park’s 2009 season and the Downs At Albuquerque from 10/2/09 – 10/27/09.  $3,283,308.41 of the total award distribution was generated from gaming.  There were 1,942 checks issued in 2009 compared to 1,706 issued in 2008.

At the November Racing Commission meeting, rule 15.2.6.9 C. Medication Restrictions (i) Clenbuterol was removed with an emergency change effective December 15, 2009.  For testing purposes, there is now a zero tolerance.

The Downs At Albuquerque concluded its race meet on Tuesday, October 27, 2009.  They ran 220 New Mexico Bred races in 59 days.

During the Racing Commission meetings it has been brought to my attention that owners of New Mexico Bred horses are unaware of New Mexico Breds finishing first, second or third in open overnight races in New Mexico will receive a 20% increase of the original purse.  This gives you another opportunity to get in a race.

Plan to attend the Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet on January 28, 2010 at the Albuquerque Marriott Hotel.

Happy New Year!   

Anna Fay Davis
Executive Director
NMHBA