Timely Discussions Planned for National HBPA Convention

With a panel from a group pushing for various changes in the Thoroughbred industry serving as the keynote speakers, the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association will address a number of hot topics when it meets March 12-16 in Clearwater Beach, Fla.

Board members from the Thoroughbred Idea Foundation will present the keynote address. The Thoroughbred Idea Foundation issued a white paper March 11 calling on Equibase to deliver free statistical information as a way of marketing the sport. That initiative follows the group's calls for penny breakage in determining pari-mutuel payouts and a move to the "Category 1" standard in determining interference.

TIF's mission is to "improve the Thoroughbred racing industry for all stakeholders, especially its primary customers—gamblers and owners." Board members scheduled to participate in the panel discussion March 13 include owners Craig Bernick (TIF founder) and Jack Wolf, and Arizona Downs owner Corey Johnsen. The panel will be moderated by owner Justin Nicholson, also a TIF board member.

"I continue to try to keep the keynote address about the positiveness and what's working in the industry," said National HBPA CEO Eric Hamelback. "I certainly see this panel as that. This group and their board as a whole are very bright individuals who are all vested in the industry. They have a passion to make this industry as successful as possible, not just sit by and be status quo.

"We're in a time where our industry is poised for growth if people will take heed of the changes that we should and could make. ... These are people who want this industry not only to survive but to thrive."

After a reception March 12, a full day of discussions and panels is planned Wednesday. Panels and discussions will continue Thursday and Friday.

Also Wednesday, a panel will discuss owners asserting rights to statistical data collected on their horses' performance and consultant Michele Fischer will discuss fixed-odds wagering in horse racing. Fixed-odds wagering is a possibility in states as sports wagering comes online.

On Thursday, economist Steve Vickner will discuss factors that affect handle in Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing. Vickner serves on the faculty of the University of Louisville Equine Program.

A scientific panel will discuss contamination issues with equine drug testing Friday.