ALBUQUERQUE, NM—APRIL 28, 2017—Concerned horsemen and women, about the continuing discussion of reductions of horse racing in the state of New Mexico, have launched a petition they plan to present at the May 11th New Mexico Racing Commission meeting in Farmington.

According to the group, just the discussion of reductions in racing opportunities for New Mexico-bred horses negatively affects the livelihood of hundreds of multi-generational families in the State. Because the industry requires long-term planning and investment, these discussions also affect the plans and investments which are vital to sustain the industry.

Breeding and racing in the state of New Mexico has been shown to have an annual impact of $400 million on the state’s economy along with 10,000 associated jobs. Horse racing is the largest spectator sport and a major tourist attraction in the state and attracts more than two million out-of-state visitors annually while contributing over $60 million to the state’s general fund.

Many breeders, and owners of race horses have made long-term investments in New Mexico because of the racing opportunities within the state.

The primary goal of the group is to ensure both breeds, Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds, are prosperous, the added money from the various sources should be specified in writing, either by rule or statute. New Mexico horsemen and women are urging the commission to establish a long-term transparent plan of equitable racing opportunities with comparable purse money across the two breeds.

Horsemen and women wanting to support this effort may CLICK HERE to sign the petition.