The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) has introduced three new programs aimed at revitalizing the state’s thoroughbred breeding industry amid ongoing challenges. Starting with mares bred in 2026, the Flagship Foal Incentive Program will provide breeders $1,000 for each registered Cal-Bred foal, capped at 25 foals per breeder, to encourage increased foal registrations. Additionally, CTBA will waive the $100 foal registration fee for members for foals born from 2025 to 2027, effectively offering up to $1,100 in financial benefits per foal when combined with the incentive program.

To further enhance breeding quality, CTBA is launching a pilot program offering up to $3,000 in transportation reimbursement for breeders who purchase high-quality broodmares (aged 12 or younger, bought for $20,000 or more at out-of-state auctions) and breed them back to California stallions. These initiatives collectively aim to reduce costs, attract new breeders, increase foal registrations, and improve the genetic quality of California-bred horses, positioning the state as a competitive leader in thoroughbred racing.