RD112 - Virginia Racing Commission 2008 Annual Report


Executive Summary:
The Racing Act, Title 59, Chapter 29, effective on January 1, 1989, vests control of all horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering conducted in the Commonwealth to the Virginia Racing Commission (VRC). The Commission:

* Prescribes regulations and conditions under which racing and wagering is conducted;

* Maintains horse racing in the Commonwealth of the highest quality free of corrupt, incompetent, dishonest or unprincipled practices, and;

*Maintains in such racing complete honesty and integrity.

Such horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering is permitted in the Commonwealth for the “promotion, sustenance and growth of a native industry, in a manner consistent with the health, safety and welfare of the people.”

In 2008 the VRC saw a reshuffling of duties due to the retirement of its long-time Executive Secretary, Stan Bowker and its Financial Analyst, Marvin Sneigon. We also witnessed the closing of one of the Colonial Downs SWF’s (Chesapeake Military Hwy.). We willingly participated in a unified attempt to push an Omnibus Racing Bill through the VA legislature.

We are seeing an increase in the amount of internet and telephone wagering and an attendant decrease in wagering at the race track and SWF’s.