In a release issued on Friday, April 25, the California Exposition & State Fair Board has voted to accept the staff recommendation to exercise the option to terminate the lease agreement with Watch and Wager, LLC, officially bringing harness racing operations at Cal Expo to a close at the end of this current season on May 2, 2025.
Trot Insider has reached out to Watch and Wager, LLC for a comment on the decision.
The full release from the Board of the California Exposition & State Fair is as follows:
The California Exposition & State Fair Board has voted to accept the staff recommendation to exercise the option to terminate the lease agreement with Watch and Wager, LLC, officially bringing harness racing operations at Cal Expo to a close at the end of this current season on May 2, 2025.
The decision to end harness racing operations was not made lightly. Despite longstanding efforts to support and sustain the sport at Cal Expo, the costs of operating and maintaining the facility continue to rise, while the changing landscape for live horse racing in Northern California grows more uncertain. At the height of harness racing at Cal Expo, there were 94 race days. During this current season, the number has dwindled to 39.
“This was an incredibly difficult decision,” said Tom Martinez, CEO of Cal Expo. “Harness racing has been a cherished part of our history, and we are grateful to the passionate community that has supported it over the years. However, it is our responsibility to ensure Cal Expo remains viable and can continue serving the people of California.”
From August 2012 through 2017, Cal Expo entered into a revenue-generating agreement with Watch and Wager, LLC, to operate harness racing during the fall and winter months. That partnership was extended several times, most recently through May 2030. While the collaboration reflected a strong mutual commitment to sustaining the sport, the Board ultimately determined that ending the agreement is in the best interest of Cal Expo’s future.
As Cal Expo closes this chapter, the staff and Board are focused on identifying future opportunities that align with Cal Expo’s mission to serve the people of California, support community engagement, and foster economic growth.
(with files from the California Exposition & State Fair)
What harness track is next to fold?
In 2023, Pompano Park In FL went out of business. Last year, Freehold Raceway in NJ ceased operations, and we've just been notified that Cal Expo in CA will close next Fri. I wonder what track will shut down next?