Los Alamitos and the Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Racing Association introduced CHRB-approved house rules.

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LOS ALAMITOS–JANUARY 17, 2026–Los Alamitos will implement a new set of CHRB-approved “house rules” aimed at strengthening Quarter Horse safety protocols, with the changes taking effect March 1, 2026.

The updated standards focus on longer standdown periods for intra-articular injections, expanded use of diagnostic imaging, and tighter on-site eligibility requirements for horses competing in trials and major finals.

CHRB regulations allow for "house rules" at a specific racetrack regarding medication policies to be implemented if there is a written agreement with the horsemen's organization - in this case, the Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Racing Association - as well as approval from the CHRB.

Key House Rules (Effective March 1)

Intra-articular injections restricted: No intra-articular injections are permitted within 30 days of a Trial race or within 14 days of a Final or Stakes race.

Diagnostics encouraged and documented: Any intra-articular treatment in a high-motion joint (fetlock or carpus) requires diagnostic imaging within seven days, with a full report submitted to the official vet within 48 hours.

Trial horses must be stabled on-site early: Horses entered in Trials must be on the grounds at least 30 days before their Trial race.

Final eligibility tied to staying on-site: Any horse leaving the grounds before a Final becomes ineligible to compete, except for approved advanced diagnostic imaging.

NSAID use tightened: CHRB-approved NSAIDs are limited to one administration within seven days of race day, while still staying within CHRB thresholds.

CHRB commissioners praised Los Alamitos and the Pacific Coast Quarter Horse Racing Association for working collaboratively on a plan that emphasizes prevention, oversight, and long-term soundness—setting a more structured standard for race-week care and preparation.

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