The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) narrowly voted 4-3 to reject the Humboldt County Fair Association’s (HCFA) proposal for three consecutive horse racing weekends in Ferndale this October, citing concerns about limited resources and the financial viability of horse racing in Northern California. This decision follows a similar denial last month, effectively ending a 128-year tradition of horse racing at the Humboldt County Fair. The CHRB also rejected a proposal from the Fresno County Fair, reflecting broader struggles in California’s horse racing industry due to financial losses, declining attendance, competition from online gambling, and animal welfare concerns.

Despite assurances from HCFA and its new partner Bernal Racing Park, LLC, about financial backing and community support, the board emphasized that the viability issues affect the entire state, not just Northern California. HCFA officials expressed concern over the future of the fair without horse racing, noting uncertainty about sponsor support and the need to find alternative attractions. In response, HCFA is exploring new events such as tractor pulls, concerts, and bull-riding to maintain community engagement and fill grandstands during the fair.