From
the Executive Office of Doug BurgeFarewell to
Racing's Best Friend
The horse racing industry lost a true friend last month when former Senator Ken Maddy passed away. Racing has been fortunate to have such a leader and advocate as a representative on its behalf. There is no doubt that California is a better place to breed, raise and race horses due to Ken's hard work and sacrifice.
With the racing industry consistently unable to reach a compromise or a unified position on significant legislative matters, Senator Maddy worked diligently to get the industry he loved so much on a common page for the good of everyone. All sides were always treated fairly due to his willingness and guidance, and for this racing can definitely see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Ken always looked out for his fellow breeders in California, as he understood the importance of the annual production of quality foals. He was vocal in support of the breeding industry and in fact made it known on many speaking occasions that "I am here to represent the breeders of the state". We couldn't have asked for a better spokesman.
I have been fortunate to work with Ken and his staff on some significant legislation the last five years. This includes SB1373, legislation that revamped the incentive awards by placing owners premiums on the purse and at the same time protecting and growing the allocation of breeder/stallion awards; SB26 which mandates that the racing associations set aside at least 10 percent of the total stakes dollars for Cal-bred stakes; and of course SB27 which reduced the state license fee by more then $40 million. The state incentive award program (those for breeders, stallion owners and owners) is now the largest in the country with total revenue of nearly $14.5 million, due to Ken Maddy and SB27.
On a personal note, Ken always took time to ask how things were going at the CTBA. A week or so before his death, he called to check up on CTBA affairs, and to just reflect on the work we have done that has lead us in the positive direction we are heading. Ken mentioned he was very pleased with the significant accomplishments the California breeding industry has made the last few years, and for that I am thankful. Up until the end, he was still looking after the Thoroughbred Breeders, whom he always referred to as his friends. We will all miss him greatly.(Please see page 8 for a recap of Ken Maddy's accomplishments).
-Doug Burge