by John Berry, for F.S.B.O.A

Pompano Beach, FL — On the heels of a 20 percent purse increase at Pompano Park, word now comes that the gaming bill under consideration by the Florida legislature–including de-coupling–is dead for this year.

F.S.B.O.A. Executive Director Joe Pennacchio, who has fought against the de-coupling measure on behalf of horsemen and women, was ecstatic about the news saying, “This is great news for those who participate in our industry in any way, whether it be as an owner, trainer, driver and caretaker or those who supply goods and services to our industry.

“We have fought continuously and hard for our industry here in Florida and the fruits of our labor have paid off. Our contract is in place, de-coupling is dead this year and our horsemen are enjoying a second purse increase in just the past few weeks.

“That doesn’t mean the fight is over because it is not. But we will continue to work on behalf of all participants in every way possible to insure the future of standardbred racing at Pompano Park.”