On Thursday, Nov. 21, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) approved the license application for Watch and Wager LLC to host a harness meet at Cal Expo from Dec. 13, 2024 through May 2, 2025.

Cal Expo's general manager Chris Schick said that new fees levied by the CHRB for the costs of stewards and official veterinarians have forced Watch and Wager to reduce costs, and the solution they decided on, with agreement by horsepeople, is to reduce their operating days by seven, from 46 programs last year to 39. Schick said this will mean there will not be any reductions in purses and the stakes program will remain intact.

The CHRB also approved Watch and Wager's license renewal for Advance Deposit Wagering.

(With files from CHRB)