Board reappointments were John Brennan, Public Member and Chris Roberts, “A” Track representative for an additional three (3) years.

The Board also said farewell to Dr. David Chalack, who began his term six (6) years ago as an “A” Track representative and continued when asked to stay on when Stampede Park left the racing scene.  Dr. Chalack’s dedication to the Industry as well as his diligence as a Board Member and most recently as Chair of the Governance & Compensation Committee were acknowledged through our Chairman, Rick LeLacheur on behalf of the Board. 

Brian Alexander will Chair the Governance & Compensation Committee going forward.

The matter of “Barefoot horses” racing on Alberta Tracks was considered.  The Regulatory & Licensing Committee reviewed material and made the following recommendation to the Board:

“The Licensing and Regulatory Committee does not recommend a change to Rule 147(2) which would allow racing of unshod Thoroughbreds at this time.  The Committee is prepared to re-address this situation if the Alberta Horsemen’s groups involved in Thoroughbred racing submit a formal rule change request complete with evidence that the rule change will not be harmful to Alberta racing in any way”.

The Board accepted the Committee’s Recommendation and stated that if any Horsemen’s Association wanted a further review, contact Doug Fenske, Manager of Racing Supervision.

The Board will meet again in mid September for a Strategic Planning Session in preparation of the 2014 – 2015 Business Plan. This Planning Session is in addition to the regularly scheduled Board Meeting to be held the latter part of October.