Turf Paradise Works to Remedy Deficiencies Before Meet

Speaking during a meeting of the Arizona Racing Commission Jan. 12, officials expressed optimism that Turf Paradise can remedy deficiencies before a Jan. 19 final inspection, allowing the track to race as scheduled for a meet from Jan. 29-May 4.

The commission suggested holding a special meeting if those requirements, established by the state, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, and The Jockeys' Guild, are not met. Track officials, as well as horsemen and ARC representatives, said Turf Paradise is working diligently toward progress.

Officials from HISA visited Turf Paradise in December with plans underway for a delayed season. The Phoenix track typically opens in the fall but did not in 2023 when track owner Jerry Simms stated a desire to sell the property.

"I want to say that the race track in the nine years I've been here is in the best condition it's ever been in. For the first time in nine years, it was done properly," said Leroy Gessmann, a consultant to the Arizona Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association. He mentioned that track surface specialists had examined the surface.

Turf Paradise fell out of compliance with HISA in early 2023 before coming to terms with the Authority. Gessmann said the Arizona HBPA and Turf Paradise are negotiating with HISA toward "finalizing our agreement for getting all the fees paid for '23 and '24."

Several speakers criticized the ARC and management of Turf Paradise for the track's continued challenges, mentioning disrepair at the facility, a shortened season of racing, and announcements by Simms of pending sales that have not materialized. 

Questioned by a commissioner Friday about the status of a potential sale that track officials said last year involved Richard Moore and the Turf Paradise Land Trust, with Frank Nickens the visionary, Simms said it had fallen through.

Stacy Campo, an owner, breeder, and trainer, took the ARC and Turf Paradise ownership to task for some of the challenges in Arizona, including conflicts over simulcasting and off-track-betting locations and the revocation of a racing permit for financially troubled Arizona Downs. When Arizona Downs raced, which it did not in 2023, it filled a void when Turf Paradise took its customary summer break.

"Why are we breeding in this state? Why are we even standing here?" she said. "If it isn't for the horses, (Turf Paradise) wouldn't even have a signal. But some people have a signal for nine months, all summer long, with no racing. But yet we have a three-month meet that should have started in October."