The California Assn. of Racing Fairs has decided to withdraw its application for a racing meeting at Pleasanton Fairgrounds Racetrack, marking the end of an effort to revive horse racing in Northern California after the closure of Golden Gate Fields. The decision is expected to have a significant impact on horsemen and the state breeding industry, as well as the summer fair circuit of races. The move follows disappointing mutuel handle and purse cuts during the initial fall/winter racing season at Pleasanton.

The Stronach Group, operating under the moniker of 1/ST Racing, has proposed to fund off-season stabling at Pleasanton and write races that better fit the makeup of Northern California horses. Additionally, some horses may find a home at Los Alamitos, which had trouble filling fields during its recent winter thoroughbred meeting. The decision to end racing in the north is part of a plan to redirect simulcast revenue to the south, where Santa Anita had a $6-million purse shortfall last year.

The closure of racing at Pleasanton is expected to have a ripple effect on the industry, potentially leading to trainers and horsemen relocating or retiring. The move is seen as a way to help save racing in Southern California, but additional supplemental income, such as historical horse racing, may be needed for the region to compete on the national racing landscape.