Breeders are offered new incentives to foal horses in California

The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association announced three programs Saturday that are designed to bolster and invigorate the state’s breeding industry during a time of uncertainty and significant change for California horse racing.

With the recent influx of resources accumulated from selling property, the CTBA board is taking action to foster growth, enhance quality and support members in continuing to produce racehorses.

Kicking off with mares bred in 2026 with resulting foals in 2027, the CTBA will award $1,000 for each foal registered as a Cal-bred with a cap of 25 foals per breeder. This financial incentive is set to empower breeders by providing direct financial support to offset their investment. This program aims to boost the number of registered foal.

The CTBA also is eliminating the $100 foal registration fee for members in good standing beginning for foals born in 2025 and registered as Cal-breds in 2026. The same $100 savings will be applied for foals born in 2026 and 2027. Coupled with the foal incentive program, the total monetary benefit for a CTBA member-breeder for foals born in 2027 will be $1,100. This initiative makes it easier and more cost-effective for breeders to register their Cal-breds. By removing this expense, the CTBA hopes to increase engagement in breeding.

To elevate the quality of broodmares in California, the CTBA is launching a pilot program. For mares purchased at out-of-state public auctions meeting specified criteria, such as purchased for $20,000 or more and 12 years old or younger, breeders will be eligible to receive up to $3,000 in transportation reimbursement. This benefit limited to five mares per breeder per year incentivizes the acquisition of top-tier broodmares. Mares purchased must be in foal, bred back to a California stallion, and the beneficiary must be a CTBA member.

“We are incredibly excited about these programs, which reflect our commitment to supporting our members and advancing California’s Thoroughbred breeding industry,” CTBA chair Justin Oldfield said. “... We are at a critical time for our industry. Our board was compelled to act and did so unanimously to support the needs of our breeders across the state, both in the north and the south. By investing in our breeders and enhancing the quality of our broodmares, we are building a stronger and more competitive future for California racing.”