-Tom Precious, Blood Horse
Amid increasing protests over state-authorized subsidies to the horse racing industry, a coalition of racing, business, union, and farming interests is being formed to press the economic importance of the Thoroughbred and harness sectors in New York.
The group, called "We Are NY Horse Racing'' and announced the morning of Sept. 29, has two dozen founding members, including the New York Racing Association, groups representing breeders and horsemen, several labor groups, OTBs, the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, and New York Farm Bureau.
The coalition, at www.nyhorseracing.com, plans to press its cause through events, paid media, and other means.
"New York's horse breeders and farm owners have propelled the sport forward in recent years, and we look forward to contributing our collective voice to this important effort,'' said Najja Thompson, executive director of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders.
