by Steve May, for the Association of Racing Commissioners International

Lexington, KY — The Association of Racing Commissioners International will hold the second in a series of “Town Hall” meetings at Gulfstream Park on Monday (Feb. 22).

The purpose of the meeting is to gather input and have a frank conversation with racing industry stakeholders, participants, and fans in an attempt to find common ground and workable solutions to the problems the industry faces.

Individual regulatory agencies have often relied upon this approach to create policies in their jurisdictions. The ARCI effort is the first time this approach will be done on a national basis in regions across the country. Throughout the year, input is being sought from racetracks, breeders, horsemen, stakeholder entities, legislators and fans. Those unable to participate in person will be able to provide input through an online survey currently being developed.

The Feb. 22 meeting will take place at 10:30 a.m. (EST) in the second floor “Sport of Kings Room” at Gulfstream Park, 901 S. Federal Highway, Hallandale Beach, Fla.

Those interested in attending are requested to pre-register by clicking here. There is no charge to register.

The first meeting took place at Santa Anita Racetrack on Jan. 21, 2016. ARCI President Ed Martin indicated that the discussion was “very productive” and was a working session that explored options to strengthen integrity efforts. Participating in that meeting included representatives and members of the California Association of Racing Fans, the California Horse Racing Board, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, the Stronach Group, the Thoroughbred Owners of California, and the Thoroughbred Trainers of California, amongst others.

Results of the ARCI effort to gather input will be presented to a meeting of national racing industry leaders, regulators and stakeholder groups to be held in early December in Tucson, Ariz.