Horse racing at this year's Big Fresno Fair canceled
In 2024, three horses were euthanized during their time at the Big Fresno Fair for injuries and illness.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Big Fresno Fair has announced live horse racing will not be a part of this year's fair.
Officials made the announcement Wednesday afternoon citing industry changes and other longstanding challenges as the reason for postponing the races this year.
Other reasons included uncertainty about the availability of horses, increased financial risk, and lack of a racing management collective for Northern California Fairs.
The California Authority of Racing Fairs voted unanimously at the end of January to not seek a Summer race meet application.
A fair spokesperson wasn't available for an interview but in a statement, the CEO, Christine Estrada, wrote:
"This tough decision was made with careful consideration for the long-term economic health of The Big Fresno Fair..."
It goes on to say "We remain committed to exploring all options in an ever-evolving industry situation.."
Estrada says the fair will pivot to alternate options in the grandstand.
The decision comes after a contentious season in which three horses at the Big Fresno Fair had to be euthanized due to illness or injury.
The deaths and others across the state drew the attention of PETA.
"It should never be okay for a horse to die at a racetrack," said Kathy Guillermo, senior vice president of PETA.
The first death in 2024 marked the first racehorse death at the Big Fresno Fair in nearly 20 years.
PETA did say there had been improvements made across the state for horse safety.
"California, Fortunately, since 2019, when there were so many dozens of deaths of horses, has been a leader in making changes that will protect horses," Guillermo explained.
"They have a lower death rate than many other States, but they're not at 0 yet, and they really need to get down to 0."
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