Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association ramps up activities

Posted: Feb. 25, 2019

The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association, created as part of a commitment by horsemen and breeder associations in the state to dedicate about $2 million a year in promotional and marketing funds for racing, has officially launched its website.

The idea is to create a brand for Pennsylvania racing, both statewide and at the six racetracks in the state. As part of a 2016 racing reform bill, the groups agreed to set aside 1% of slot-machine revenue that goes to the Race Horse Development Fund to pay for promotion and marketing.

Stakeholders collectively represent about 10,000 owners and trainers involved in Pennsylvania racing. Leadership consists of representatives from the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, Pennsylvania Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association, The Meadows Standardbred Owners Association, the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen’s Association and the Standardbred Breeders Association of Pennsylvania.

The groups formed the Pennsylvania Equine Coalition, which collectively lobbies for horsemen and breeders, in 2009.

The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission is directly involved in the marketing initiative.

The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association website can be viewed here.

(Parx Racing photo by Tom LaMarra)