Largest Horse Track Operator Adopts No-Slaughter Policy

Under the policy, any trainer or owner stabling at an MEC facility who directly or indirectly participates in the transport of a horse from an MEC facility to either a slaughterhouse or an auction house engaged in selling horses for slaughter will be prohibited from having stalls at any MEC facility. The policy also applies to any actions related to the transport of a horse from an MEC facility where the ultimate intended result is the horse’s slaughter.

Ron Charles, Chief Operating Officer of MEC and President of Santa Anita Park, commented, "MEC is extremely pleased to formally adopt a policy to further encourage the humane treatment of racehorses. We intend this to be one in a series of steps that will be taken in an effort to protect our equine athletes. Consistent with the long-standing vision of Frank Stronach and management at our racetracks, the policy signifies the Company’s strong intent to deal only with those trainers and owners who have the welfare of racehorses as their primary concern."

And Frank Stronach, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, added, "I hope other racetrack owners formally adopt similar policies".