U.S. Wagering Bounces Back in April After Six-Month Drought
April 2026 delivered the first year-over-year wagering increase in six months at $898.25 million (+2.23%), while purses surged 9.14%, though year-to-date handle remains down 4.69%.
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Equibase launches new computer-generated rating system for every Thoroughbred racehorse in North America.
Equibase has officially introduced a computer-generated rating system that assigns performance scores to nearly every Thoroughbred racehorse training in North America, providing racing secretaries with an alternative tool for creating race conditions. The system appeared on horse profile pages starting October 16, 2025, with Santa Anita expected to be the first track to implement "Ratings Handicaps" as early as October 24.
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Parx and Presque Isle Downs officials discovered electrical device and loaded syringes in the vehicles of licensed horse racing personnel.
During security searches at Presque Isle Downs and Parx Racing on September 19, 2025, Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission officials discovered an electrical device and loaded syringes in the vehicles of licensed horse racing personnel. This resulted in immediate suspensions and increased scrutiny of the sport’s safety and integrity policies.
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Rocco Bowen suspended for 15 days, Paco Lopez suspended for 6 months for riding dirty.
Hats off to Belterra Park and Parx for getting serious about riding infractions that could harm the horse. We have on instance of a 15-day slap on the wrist and another with a walloping 6 month suspension.
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Good news for the industry! Keeneland sales have surpassed last year’s results – and they’re only halfway through the sale.
At the midpoint of the 2025 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, the auction has delivered remarkable double-digit growth across all major indicators compared to 2024. Through six sessions ending September 14, Keeneland sold 1,305 horses for $434,982,000.
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How Computer-Assisted Wagering (CAW) is wrecking the thoroughbred horse racing industry.
Computer-Assisted Wagering (CAW) is a process where sophisticated betting groups use algorithmic models and real-time data to place large volumes of strategic bets on horse races. These teams employ advanced technology to submit "thousands of individual bets in the final seconds before post time," using real-time odds information to fine-tune their positions while keeping their activity hidden from the broader betting public. The result? A better may see a race "start" at 8/1 odds only to finish at 9/2 after the last minute CAW bets hit the board. Hundreds of dollars may instantly "disappear" from the bettor's pocket. And yes, it's akin to stealing money from the public.