The California Harness Horsemen’s Association (CHHA) has “opened its doors”, so to speak, to three other western states in the spirit of cooperation and has formed an alliance that is aimed to strengthen the industry for all four participants. Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota through their respective horsemen’s associations have all agreed to participate in this creative program called the Diamond Harness Alliance (DHA).

At its core, “Alliance” horses shipping to California will be eligible for some incentives, which aim to increase the value of these equines. Such horses will be eligible for any shipping reimbursement program that exists and those that are foals from registered sires in alliance states will qualify for all special “Cal-Sired” allowances which are afforded only to horses officially registered as California-sired. Of course, these horses will not be eligible to race in California Sires Stakes races.

In a previous press release, CHHA President Ben Kenney commented, “The pari-mutuel and fair racing in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin comes to a grinding halt in the late fall. Here in California, now with year-round racing, we face the challenge of giving our horses some time off, while still maintaining a solid product for our fans. Finally, with no tracks within shipping distance, our racing product is a little less varied than we would like. The alliance concept addresses all of these concerns and effectively improves the programs in all four states.”