1/ST's Gulfstream Park and the Florida Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association have reached an agreement to support changes to Chapter 550 of the existing state legislation that will enable Gulfstream Park's live racing schedule to become independent of the venue's pari-mutuel license.
The basis for the agreement, unique and designed to address the needs of Florida and consistent with similar gaming entities in the region, allows 1/ST to pursue necessary opportunities for development at Gulfstream Park. The agreement ensures purse revenues are unaffected and provides for additional contributions by Gulfstream Park to horsemen's workers' compensation premiums and meaningful increases to Thoroughbred aftercare efforts in Florida.
House Bill 105 was filed Jan. 6.
"As a supporter of the Thoroughbred horse racing industry, I'm proud to sponsor House Bill 105," said representative Adam Anderson. "Gulfstream Park and the horse racing industry are integral to our state's economy and cultural heritage. Gulfstream Park is not just a premier destination for racing; it's a vital part of its local community, agriculture business, and state economy, providing jobs and driving tourism. Florida's horse racing industry is a symbol of excellence and tradition, and I will continue to advocate for policies that ensure its growth and success, securing its future in Florida for generations to come."
Gulfstream Park is one of the top racing destinations in North America and the jewel of Florida's Thoroughbred racing industry. It is expected to run more than 200 live race days in 2025. It houses 1,500+ horses at Gulfstream Park, 1,400 horses at Palms Meadows Training Center, and supports the interests of nearly 6,000 Florida horse owners and trainers. It is the only pari-mutuel facility in North America with three racing surfaces—dirt, turf, and all-weather Tapeta—and is home to the Pegasus World Cup (G1), Thoroughbred racing's premier luxury and lifestyle event. Gulfstream Park is an entertainment destination center that combines live horse racing and wagering with a casino, live shows, and lifestyle-oriented recreation and leisure activities in the Gulfstream Park Village.
"We look forward to the upcoming legislative consideration process and to working in collaboration with Florida Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association and other stakeholders to advocate for the passage of the statutory amendments to Chapter 550 that will provide the necessary foundation to support an economically sensible plan to protect year-round racing at Gulfstream Park," said 1/ST president of racing Stephen Screnci.
"The Florida Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association and 1/ST share an understanding of the issues critical to and facing year-round Thoroughbred racing at Gulfstream Park, and are committed to the same outcome," said FHBPA executive director Herb Oster. "By supporting the statutory amendments to Chapter 550 to enable Gulfstream Park's live racing schedule to become independent of the venue's pari-mutuel license, we are securing a sustainable future for horsemen in Florida that sensibly addresses the challenging economic realities facing the industry."
