from the California Horse Racing Board

Sacramento, CA — Kirk E. Breed, 73, executive director of the California Horse Racing Board since Feb. 26, 2008, died Aug. 7, 2013, in a Sacramento hospital after a battle against cancer.

Mr. Breed continued overseeing CHRB operations throughout his long illness.

Assistant Executive Director Jacqueline Wagner will oversee the daily operations of the CHRB until an executive director is named.

CHRB Chairman David Israel issued the following statement: “The members of the Board lost a beloved colleague and friend. In his years as executive director, Kirk Breed provided invaluable guidance and counsel to everyone who served on the Board. No one was more dedicated to assuring the welfare of the horse, the well-being of the participants and the integrity of the sport than Kirk. He will be missed, and all of us express our heartfelt condolences to Mary Ann and the entire Breed family.”

A more complete announcement will be issued later today.