IBOP Requests Investigation of the Cancellation of Race Days at Indiana Downs

Earlier today, Indiana Breeder & Owner Protection, Inc. (IBOP) sent the message below to the Indiana Inspector General's Office through their 'Request an Investigation' feature (Investigation Hotline) on their website. In our Semi-Annual Report, which can be found in our July newsletter, we suggested that the Final Report approved by the IHRC on the cancellation of race days at Indiana Downs raised more questions than provided answers. What you'll read below is a reference to an IHRC rule that only delegates authority to cancel race days in emergencies to the judges (stewards), not the Executive Director.

If you'd like to help encourage the Inspector General to initiate this investigation, please do so through the Investigation Hotline at the following link: http://www.in.gov/ig/2330.htm

"On June 14, 2012 the Executive Director of the Indiana Horse Racing Commission (IHRC), Joe Gorajec issued a directive canceling live racing at Indiana Downs on June 15th and June 16th. His directive was issued due to a perceived complaint regarding the track surface by a horsemen's group two full days earlier on June 12th.

According to 71 IAC 2-9-1(c), Mr. Gorajec did not have the authority to cancel race days. That authority has been delegated by the IHRC to the judges, also know as stewards in thoroughbred and quarter horse racing. By his own admission, Mr. Gorajec did not engage the stewards at Indiana Downs until June 15th.

Our organization's position (Indiana Breeder & Owner Protection) is that Mr. Gorajec acted inappropriately, rashly and most importantly, outside of his authority. There are many people, not only horsemen, that are reliant upon the race tracks to be open for business. Our files and documentation on this issue are extensive; therefore, we are requesting to meet with an investigator from your office at your earliest possible convenience.


Thank you,


Jim Hartman
IBOP Vice President
317-705-0664"