Newly established Texas Derby needs funding

Texas horse race fans know of the Louisiana Derby, the Florida Derby and, certainly, the Kentucky Derby.

Now there will be a Texas Derby for thoroughbreds and quarter horses under a newly enacted state law designed to boost racing attendance and showcase Texas-bred horses.

Even though legislators didn't grant the wishes of horsemen and track owners this year to allow revenue-producing slot machines at horse and dog tracks — something the struggling industry says it needs — the House and Senate overwhelmingly supported the Texas Derby bill by Rep. Harvey Hilderbran, R-Kerrville, whose district includes Callahan, Coleman and Runnels counties.

Tourism dollars and a boost for local horse breeding will result from the legislation, Hilderbran said. Gov. Rick Perry signed the measure in June.