Hundreds Face Uncertainty in California End Horse Racing

Hundreds of low-income workers and residents at the Alameda County Fairgrounds may soon be displaced following the decision to End Horse Racing in Northern California. With no races planned beyond this year, many are now facing job loss and potential housing concerns.

Initially, it was expected that races at the fairgrounds would continue until June. However, due to lower-than-anticipated wagering revenue last year, the California Authority of End Horse Racing Fairs decided to discontinue all racing events in the region.

As a result, trainers, stable workers, and others connected to the Impact on horse racing industry must vacate the fairgrounds by March 25. Many who have worked and lived there for years now have little time to find alternative solutions.

Longtime horse trainer Timothy Bellasis, who has been at the fairgrounds for three decades, described the difficult situation. “We have four weeks to remove ourselves from the premises,” he said.

According to Bellasis, the fairgrounds had over 900 horses on-site during the End Horse Racing season from October to December. That number has now dwindled to around 350 and continues to decline as horses are relocated elsewhere.

For many, the decision affects more than just their jobs. The fairgrounds have served as both a place of work and residence and now, those who relied on the Impact on horse racing industry for income and shelter must quickly adjust.

The change stems from a major decline in wagering revenue, which fell 50% below projections. Due to financial concerns, officials decided to consolidate End Horse Racing into a single circuit at tracks in Southern California, leaving no races in the northern part of the state.

Nicholas Hernandez, a longtime stable worker, is among those left wondering what comes next. After spending 45 years caring for horses, the abrupt shift has been devastating.

“The horses help me, like therapy. And the good people too. I work for good people,” Hernandez said, holding back tears.

Most of the horses he worked with have already been relocated to Kentucky or other regions, leaving Hernandez and others uncertain about their future. “We’re like family. I don’t know what’s next,” he added.

End Horse Racing in Northern California will Impact on horse racing industry more than just those directly employed by the fairgrounds. Local businesses, veterinarians, feed suppliers, and other industries tied to End Horse Racing will also feel the effects.

Now, for many trainers and workers, the Alameda County Fairgrounds face some tough decisions as to whether they relocate, change careers, or risk going unemployed. With only weeks before the final deadline, those affected at Alameda County Fairgrounds scramble to find solutions. Some look for other work in related fields, while others at Alameda County Fairgrounds simply do not have their futures clear. The closure of horse racing at Alameda County Fairgrounds has left many people in limbo as to what they should do about their future.

As Northern California’s long history of End Horse Racing comes to an end, many are left without answers, hoping for support or alternatives before time runs out.