Horse Racing, Stabling To End At Alameda County Fairgrounds: Reports

PLEASANTON, CA — The California Authority of Racing Fairs confirmed Jan. 30 that it will end all Golden State Racing stabling and training operations in Northern California, including at the Alameda County Fairgrounds, according to reports.

On Jan. 28, CARF, which also organizes racing at three other Northern California fairgrounds, announced that it would not hold any horse racing events in 2025 due to financial challenges. It announced shortly after that it will end stabling and training operations at the end of March, according to a report in Pleasanton Weekly.

“After making the difficult decision not to submit future race meet applications, the California Authority of Racing Fairs announces that it has directed staff to reorganize operations to focus on addressing current obligations and future efforts to support California Fairgrounds and their Satellite Network,” CARF said in a statement. “This difficult decision was based upon an assessment of financial challenges incurred in the Golden Gate Racing meet, as well as current obstacles facing the horse racing industry.”

While live races will end, CARF said that it will continue to support off-track betting on televised races.

The announcement follows a difficult stretch for NorCal horse racing, which included 13 horse deaths and the resignation of CARF’s Executive Director Larry Swartzlander, according to The Independent.

The Stable Café, long a favored hangout for jockeys and stable staff, will also close at the end of March, according to Pleasanton Weekly.