The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) voted 4-3 to deny the Big Fresno Fair’s request to host live horse racing at the 2025 event, following the Fair Board’s earlier decision to pause live racing after the California Authority of Racing Fairs ceased managing race meets for Fresno and other Northern California fairs. Despite submitting a proposal with the newly formed Bernal Park Racing after months of preparation, the CHRB’s decision means no live horse races will take place at the fair next year.

Although disappointed, Big Fresno Fair officials remain committed to preserving the horse racing tradition, with plans to continue pursuing opportunities for 2026. While live racing is halted, The Starting Gate will stay open for wagering on other tracks, and the fair will introduce alternative grandstand entertainment, with announcements expected in the summer.