May 2000
From the Executive Corner
"An Attitude of Unity"
By Wes Fitzpatrick
I am honored that
my fellow directors have elected me to serve the current term as President of the
California Thoroughbred Breeders Association. When I reflect on those fine individuals who
have held this office before me, I am also very humbled. My goals include working towards
more favorable opportunities for the breeders of this state.
Reflecting upon the current status of our industry, one may ask
"Is it the best of times?" or "Is it the worst of times?" Most
breeders I talk to, lean heavily towards the former and I certainly agree with that
viewpoint. This is because of the fact that never before has every facet of the
thoroughbred industry been so united towards achieving common goals. Egos have been
replaced by an attitude of unity.
The Racing Associations, the Thoroughbred Owners of California, the
California Thoroughbred Trainers and our own CTBA have all relegated their special
interests to secondary positions, so that industry-wide improvements can be made. For
example, such unity resulted in last years' successful enactment of SB27, the bill
providing license fee relief to our industry. The momentum created by that is now being
carried forward, helping us face new challenges within the industry.
The recently approved Proposition 1A, allowing for the expansion of
gaming on Indian reservations, will no doubt increase the competition when it comes to
both maintaining and expanding our customer base. But the horse racing industry has always
risen to the challenge of new competition. When the lottery was introduced in California,
the doomsayers were predicting the demise of racing. On the contrary, from day one we have
seen racing successfully coexist with the lottery having even grown so much stronger as a
result of it. So this new competition will merely motivate us to enhance our existing
product in the future.
Today we see continued investment in breeding and racing throughout our state. The
stallion roster has never been stronger. The breeders are regularly upgrading their
broodmare bands. The Racing Associations are investing millions in capital improvements to
all avenues of their operations. The purses offered have never been higher. Both our
existing owners and the new blood in the game, are supporting our sales and taking
advantage of the California-bred programs. Trainers now recognize the great opportunity
and value that our top quality Cal-breds offer.
Furthermore, the CTBA is committed to working with the local Racing
Associations, as well as the TOC and the CTT, in evaluating the concept of Advanced
Deposit Wagering. We believe that this type of wagering would have a positive impact upon
our industry. But first, we must fully understand what the implementation thereof will do
to on-track attendance and handle. We also need to research the effect it will have on
simulcast outlets. Then, if all of the industry's organizations positively conclude that
this is the direction to follow, we will work towards getting the necessary legislation
that will allow this form of wagering in our state. Remember, the continued support of our
combined membership will be a critical factor in gaining such legislative approval.
Yes, I firmly believe that, "It is the best of times." The glass is half-full,
not half-empty. This latest challenge should only serve to make us stronger as an
industry. Thoroughbred racing and breeding is the most majestic and thrilling of all
sporting events in the world. My advice to you is, breed with confidence. The
opportunities for you right now have never been better.
CTBA Presidents Roll of Honor
Henry P. Russell 1937 and 1940
Charles E. Perkins 1938 to 1939
Walter T. Wells 1941
Henry N. Isenberg 1942 to 1944
Walter H. Hoffman Jr. 1945 to 1946 and 1951
Walter G. McCarty 1947 to 1950
Dr. Frank Porter Miller 1952 to 1954
Louis R. Rowan 1955 to 1960
M. G. Sues 1961 to 1962
Cecilia deMille Harper 1963 to 1966
Charles H. Russell 1967 to 1971
W. T. Pascoe III 1972 to 1974
Bernard J. Ridder 1975 to 1976
Kenneth M. Schiffer 1977 to 1982
E. W. Johnston 1983 to 1985
Donald J. Valpredo 1986 to 1988
John C. Harris 1989 to 1991
F. Jack Liebau 1992 to 1993
Joe Parker 1994 to 1995
John C. Harris 1996 to 1997
John Barr 1998 to 1999
Weston L. Fitzpatrick 2000 to