“It is gratifying to see what can be accomplished when the Thoroughbred industry and the racetracks work together. Supporting Texas horse owners and breeders and promoting the value of Texas-bred horses is our number one priority,” said TTA president Tracy Sheffield.

HB 2463 was passed in the 2019 state legislative session. Derived from a portion of state sales taxes on equine goods and services, it provides up to $25 million per year to stimulate the Texas Equine Industry, with 70% ($17.5 million) earmarked for purse funds and the remaining 30% ($7.5 million) available to the official state breed registries (TTA, TQHA, TABA, TPHA) for Texas Racing Commission-approved events and programs. Funds became available in 2020.

“The purse restructuring shows dedication to Texas-breds on the racetrack and it has a positive impact on a large number of Texas horsemen,” said Bryan Pettigrew, Vice President and General Manager of Sam Houston Race Park. “The owners and trainers I have spoken with are praising the change. It's putting more money on the table for Texas-breds.”

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