Horse Racing News on July 22, 2010

For both the filly herself, and the New Jersey racing industry as a whole, Rachel Alexandra's appearance at Monmouth Park couldn't come at a better time.

New Jersey's state- and casino-supported racing industry should no longer receive financial assistance, and the Meadowlands racetrack should be closed or sold for a nominal fee, according to a report released Wednesday.

The California Horse Racing Board has voted to allow Patrick Valenzuela to resume riding in the state under strict conditions that require the jockey with a history of substance abuse to submit to hair follicle testing.

Zenyatta worked six furlongs in 1:12.40 at Hollywood Park on Thursday, moving closer to an expected start in the $300,000 Clement Hirsch Stakes at Del Mar on Aug. 7.