In a brief statement issued on Monday (March 14), Blue Chip Farms announced that it will be freeze branding its 2022 foals.

The Wallkill, New York breeding farm's decision "in light of recent industry discussions" follows the U.S. Trotting Association's Sunday announcement that its Board of Directors voted to keep freeze brands as an optional form of horse identification in addition to mandatory microchipping, which has been required to be eligible for racing as of January 1.

(With files from Blue Chip Farms)