Horse racing will not return to The Big Fresno Fair this fall.
The California Horse Racing Board voted 4-3 on Thursday to deny the fair’s request to host live horse racing in September and October.
Driving the news: In January, the California Authority of Racing Fairs (CARF) decided not to submit future race meet applications for the summer in light of financial challenges and other obstacles, putting Frenso’s races in flux.
- The Big Fresno Fair submitted a proposal in May with the newly formed Bernal Park Racing, LLC, to hold live horse racing from Sep. 19-21, Sep. 26-28 and Oct 1 after months of work to assess the viability of future races in Fresno.
- John Harris and George Schmitt established Bernal Park Racing and committed to cover the start-up costs and any potential losses for the races, giving Fresno an opportunity to hold the races in the fall.
What they’re saying: Fair CEO Christina Estrada said the fair is proud of the work that was done to identify a responsible and sustainable path forward for live horse racing in Fresno.
- “While we are disappointed by today’s decision, our commitment to preserving this 140-year tradition remains strong,” Estrada said. “The Fair’s Horse Racing Committee will continue its efforts to pursue opportunities for 2026.”
- Schmitt and Harris expressed their disappointment with the decision.
- “We’re incredibly disappointed by the CFRB’s decision to deny 2025 race dates for Fresno, especially given the strategic and extensive work behind this effort and the strong support it received – particularly from Central Valley elected officials,” Schmitt said. “This is a major blow to horse owners, trainers and breeders who were ready to support this meet and rely on these opportunities to stay in business and remain competitive.”
- Harris added, “It’s very important that Fresno maintain its race dates. We will never give up continuing this storied tradition of Fresno racing. Today’s decision is not the end – we will come back again next year.”
