To the Virginia Horse Racing Commission:
I urge you to support the horse industry in Virginia by writing regulations for historic horse racing that allow for growth in the industry.
I own and my wife trains steeplechase horses in Virginia. We provide jobs for four full-time employees, several part time employees, and substantial revenue to local businesses including veterinarians, farriers, feed stores, and many others. And, our farm is permanently protected through a conservation easement. Colonial Downs provides a superb venue for horse racing in Virginia. Allowing for substantial from historic horse racing will allow for many days of outstanding racing in Virginia. And, this will encourage more breeding and training of horses in this state.
Virginia has a great history in horse racing and it’s time we recapture and rejuvenate that history. I urge you to allow for growth in racing in Virginia.
Robert Bonnie
35187 Over Creek Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117