The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association of New Jersey (TBANJ) has reached an agreement with Darby Development, the permit holder at Monmouth Park, to support an amended bill aimed at protecting Thoroughbred racing and breeding in the state. The bill, set for introduction in the upcoming legislative session, mandates that the minimum number of Thoroughbred race dates cannot drop below 25 unless the industry fails to secure a $10 million purse subsidy from the state. If the subsidy is reduced to $5 million, the minimum race dates can be lowered to 40. TBANJ emphasizes its commitment to working with Darby Development and the New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association to enhance revenue streams, strengthen purses, and expand incentive programs, highlighting the industry’s $780 million economic impact and job support across New Jersey.

TBANJ also addressed recent social media criticism of Dennis Drazin, head of Darby Development, defending his crucial role in sustaining Monmouth Park and the state’s equine industry. Executive director Michael Campbell credited Drazin’s leadership and dedication for the continued operation of Monmouth Park, especially given the challenges faced by New Jersey’s racing industry, which lacks casino gaming or historical racing machines to support purse structures. The collaboration between the New Jersey Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and Drazin has been vital in preserving Thoroughbred racing and breeding in the state.