Horse Racing News: HISA Hosts Town Hall Meeting, Reviews Rule Changes
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) hosted a town hall meeting on Monday, providing updates on various rule changes that went into effect that same day after being approved by the Federal Trade Commission.
HISA’s Director of Stewarding and State Racing Commission Relations, Marc Guilfoil, discussed revisions to the voided claim rule. Under the new rules, claimants can choose to void a claim if there is a post-race positive test, as long as they notify stewards in writing within 48 hours. The claimant would then receive the claiming price back, as well as reasonable expenses related to the care and training of the horse.
Ann McGovern, HISA’s Director of Racetrack Safety, highlighted changes to the waiver claiming rule. The provisions remain largely the same, but the new rules strengthen incentives for connections to lay off and treat horses in need. As long as the horse does not win its first start back and the majority ownership has not changed, the horse can make a second start with a waived tag.
On the veterinary front, Dr. Shari Silverman, an equine veterinarian, discussed revisions to rules governing corticosteroid injections, the vet’s list, and banned treatments like pin-firing and freeze-firing. The new rules impose stricter stand-down periods and tighten regulations for working off the vet’s list.
During the Q&A session, HISA representatives addressed concerns about the crop rule, owner accountability, and the cost of HISA to the industry. CEO Lisa Lazarus noted that HISA is exploring alternative funding sources to ease the burden on racetracks and horsemen.
“Overall, the town hall meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the latest rule changes under HISA, which aim to enhance horse and jockey safety while upholding the integrity of the sport.”
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