The Nevada Gaming Control Board has recommended the authorization of the county fair horse races that take place in the cities of Ely and Elko, both located in Nevada.
In a unanimous vote, the board recommended permitting races for Agriculture District No. 13, August 19-21 in Ely, and for the Elko County Fair Board, August 26 through Sept. 5, in Elko.
On June 23, the Nevada Gaming Commission will consider final approval.
The horse races in eastern Nevada feature thoroughbreds and quarter horses, in the past, pari-mutuel wagering was permitted on the races with six to ten races per day. The races in Ely have run since 1934 and were originally formed by ranchers during the Great Depression.
With a total purse of $200,000, the meet includes the 72nd annual Intermountain Quarter Horse Futurity and the 40th annual Elko County Quarter Horse Derby.
Brian McIntosh, the Control Board’s Enforcement Division Supervisor in Elko, reminded the board members of problems from last year’s races, two of which resulted in $750 fines.
One of the problems at the White Pine County races in Ely resulted in a horse leaving the course and dislodging the jockey. Neither the horse nor jockey were injured in this instance and the track has been modified since the incident.
At the Elko incidents, investigators determined that select horses had illegal substances in their systems after post-race urine and blood tests. State gaming regulations forbid the use of particular drugs at certain levels.
Brin Gibson, Control Board Chairman, noted the significance of the races and their ties to Nevada's history.
Gibson said: "This is holdover from the old West. It shows how diverse the state is. It’s wonderful."
