Virginia Horse Groups Unite, Examine Options

Four prominent Virginia horse groups have united to form a new organization, the Virginia Equine Alliance, dedicated to growing the state's racing industry since Colonial Downs opted last month not to apply for race dates in 2015.

The four member groups of the new organization are the Virginia Thoroughbred Association, the Virginia Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, the Virginia Harness Horse Association, and the Virginia Gold Cup.

The alliance envisions organizing racing as a non-profit corporation with associated charities being given the opportunity to raise funds through their participation on racing days. All net revenue from the planned not-for-profit model would be directed back into the industry.

A new plan is needed because of the Oct. 15 decision by Colonial Downs owner Jeffrey Jacobs to withdraw the track's request for Thoroughbred and Standardbred race dates in 2015. After failing to reach an agreement with the Virginia HBPA this year, no 2014 Thoroughbred racing dates were offered at Colonial.

The VEA's interim board includes David Ross of the Virginia HBPA, Dr. William Allison (Gold Cup), Wayne Chatfield-Taylor (VTA), and Dr. R.C. Dunavant (VHHA). It has named current VTA executive director Debbie Easter interim president of the VEA and has enlisted John "Jeb" Hannum as interim executive director.

Easter pointed out that the not-for-profit model has been successful for the Virginia Gold Cup, which draws about 50,000 spectators for its steeplechase races at Great Meadow in The Plains, Va.



"The profits in racing just aren't enough for these corporate casinos but I think we can do things that help the industry, put money back in the industry, and help it grow; and do good things for the community," Easter said.

The VEA listed as priorities legislative action to allow for more racing opportunities, exploring the feasibility of new venues for Thoroughbred and harness racing next year, and conducting regional meetings for feedback from horsemen. Hannum said the VEA will explore the possibility of offering flat Thoroughbred racing at the 175-acre Great Meadow next year and will examine other possible racing outlets that could include Colonial Downs.

He said racing at such ideal spots as Great Meadow could offer a unique experience for horsemen and fans.

"We're also visiting sites which would potentially enable us to have flat racing, steeplechase racing, and harness racing so we can have opportunities for horsemen with both breeds in 2015," Hannum said.

Hannum said the VEA will examine any changes that need to be made to state statutes to allow racing at the various sites next year, and will then work for any needed changes.

"We have to maintain the communications with our horsemen and breeders; try to build up morale and get people excited about next year," Hannum said. "We hope to spell those out early in 2015.

"This is uncharted waters for everybody but there's a great heritage of racing and breeding in Virginia and a foundation for a new sustainable model for racing in multiple venues. We want to put racing in places that are aesthetically pleasing at sites with high customer satisfaction."

Hannum has previously served as executive director of the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association. Hannum oversaw the administration and development of the program and worked closely with the Pennsylvania horsemen, track operators, and the racing commission.

Prior to joining the PHBA, Hannum was appointed to the Pennsylvania Racing Commission in 2008 and served a three-year term. He also is a former amateur steeplechase jockey.

On the Thoroughbred side, the VEA expects there will be at least $5 million in purse funds available for racing in 2015. That money carries over from available money that was not offered this year because of the shutdown of live Thoroughbred racing and funding from advance desposit wagering handle. While Thoroughbred simulcasts have been shut down in the state, money has continued into the fund from Colonial's ADW operation and the other major ADW companies that operate in the state. 

In a release the VEA said it would be working with the racing commission, General Assembly, and the governor's office to update the racing statute to create more racing opportunities and to establish a development fund to grow the sport. The VEA plans to have its legislative agenda completed by the beginning of December.

The VEA plans to publish a limited race-day schedule in early 2015. Representatives from the horsemen and breeders have visited numerous sites to explore the possibility of race meets in the future.

The VEA will host a number of regional meetings with horsemen to update plans and to answer questions and collect feedback. A schedule of the meetings and dates will be announced by the end of November. Horsemen who would like to receive email updates can .

"Between the breeders and the HBPA, the owners and trainers, the harness guys and the Gold Cup people, we want to make sure the industry moves forward in Virginia," Easter said. "With the situation of Colonial turning in their license, we hope to put some ideas out there that can put some more racing here in Virginia."