Letter To The Editor: Is There Hope For California Racing?

California’s storied racetracks once set the gold standard in American racing. Yet today, many owners are asking: is there hope?

From my vantage point as a longtime owner, the answer lies in collaboration, clear communication and a shared commitment to the future.

We’ve seen encouraging signs–new training programs, emerging talent and a continued passion among participants. California racing does not lack for quality horses, trainers or owners. What we must do now is harness that strength and align it toward a common purpose.

After retiring from a career in public service, I entered Thoroughbred racing and found a passionate community. One lesson from that career has stayed with me: success rarely belongs to individuals–it belongs to groups willing to work together.

At the individual level, our industry has no shortage of talent and commitment. But as in many complex systems, challenges arise when competing priorities and institutional interests intersect. When left unchecked, those forces can hinder progress.

A simple principle applies: no individual is smarter than the table. The more capable people working together toward a shared goal, the more likely we are to find meaningful solutions.

For California racing, bringing those people together may be our most important task.

Working Within the Structure
I don’t believe in disruption for its own sake. I believe progress comes from working within the existing framework among the people already committed to the industry.

As a member of the Thoroughbred Owners of California, I have spoken with leaders connected to key organizations across the industry. In those conversations, I found something encouraging–nearly everyone shares a genuine desire to see California racing succeed.

However, when viewed collectively, the complexity of the system becomes clear.

Our industry operates within a layered structure. Racetracks function under different business models, while a broader network of breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and backstretch workers all depend on racing’s success.

Each group has valid priorities. But when those priorities fail to align, progress becomes difficult.

The Northern California Challenge
The debate over Northern California racing illustrates this challenge.

From my perspective, individuals on all sides care deeply about the sport. Yet when collaboration breaks down, narratives can emerge that divide rather than unite.

If California racing is to move forward, discussions must remain grounded in facts, mutual respect, and a shared vision.

A Critical Political Moment
California is approaching a significant political transition with the election of a new governor in 2026.

This presents a critical opportunity.

The industry contributes an estimated $2-3 billion annually to the state’s economy and supports tens of thousands of jobs across agriculture, veterinary care, tourism, and related industries.

But its value goes beyond economics. For many, racing is a way of life–built on discipline, community, and commitments to the horses and the industry.

These stories are powerful, but they must be communicated clearly and collectively. A unified, nonpartisan message to policymakers will be essential.

A Proposal for Collaboration
In discussions with fellow owners, including San Diego owner Bing Bush, a common theme emerged: the need for greater coordination across industry leadership.

Together, we submitted a proposal to the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) encouraging collaboration among key organizations to engage state policymakers with a unified strategy.

While no formal response has yet been issued, the idea is straightforward–a coalition of industry leaders working together to present a cohesive vision.

The political window is limited. If the industry does not organize in time, the opportunity to influence policy may pass.

The Opportunity Before Us
This is not a criticism. It is a call for urgency and cooperation.

Owners, trainers, breeders, and backstretch workers all share the same goal–the long-term success of California Thoroughbred racing.

If leadership can come together, align priorities and present a unified voice, the path forward becomes far more promising.

California racing has the people, tradition, and foundation to succeed.

What it needs now is alignment.

Leonard Miranda is the owner of Integrity Thoroughbred Racing, LLC.