Michael Repole, a prominent Thoroughbred owner based in New York, has emerged as a vocal advocate for transforming the horse racing industry. With an impressive roster of champion horses under his ownership, Repole has leveraged his influence to drive much-needed reforms and address the pressing challenges facing the sport.

A Visionary's Call to Action

Reviving California's Racing Landscape

Recognizing the pivotal role of California in the overall health of the sport, Repole has taken decisive action. Concerned by the declining number of horses racing in the Golden State, he has made a concerted effort to ship a string of his own horses to the West Coast, partnering with renowned trainer Michael McCarthy. Repole's commitment to supporting California racing stems from his belief that the state's success is essential for the sport's national prominence. "Racing needs to be in California," Repole asserts. "You're not a national sport if you're not in California."Repole's strategy extends beyond just sending his own horses to California. He has actively reached out to other industry leaders, urging them to follow suit and contribute to the revitalization of the state's racing scene. "I've spoken to Belinda (Stronach) and Aidan (Butler at Santa Anita); I've spoken to Bob Baffert, Michael McCarthy and other trainers," Repole reveals. "I'm talking to people on The Jockey Club board, on the Breeders' Cup board. We have to figure it out because it's going to hurt them, too."

Challenging the Status Quo

Repole's passion for reform extends beyond the geographical boundaries of California. He has been a vocal critic of the industry's shortcomings, identifying the problems that have plagued the sport for years. "We've been identifying the problems for 15 years," Repole says. "I'm trying to get a little more urgency, a call to action."Repole's willingness to confront the industry's challenges head-on sets him apart from many of his peers. He has not shied away from calling out the lack of leadership, collaboration, and alignment within the sport. "There's no real leadership, no real collaboration, no real alignment," he laments. Repole's determination to drive change has earned him the self-proclaimed title of "the commissioner," as he continues to advocate for reforms and solutions.

Expanding the Reach of Thoroughbred Aftercare

Repole's vision for the future of horse racing extends beyond the racetrack. He recognizes the critical importance of Thoroughbred aftercare, a cause he has championed alongside his efforts to revive the sport. Repole believes that the industry's commitment to ensuring the well-being of retired racehorses is a fundamental pillar of its long-term sustainability."The most important initiative is Thoroughbred aftercare and after that it's saving and growing California racing," Repole asserts. By prioritizing the welfare of retired horses and advocating for the expansion of aftercare programs, Repole aims to create a more compassionate and responsible industry that caters to the needs of the equine athletes at the heart of the sport.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Repole's passion for horse racing is deeply rooted, dating back to his teenage years when he first fell in love with the sport. Now, as a seasoned owner and industry leader, Repole is driven by a desire to nurture the next generation of enthusiasts and participants."I'm trying my best to help the next generation," Repole says. He has taken proactive steps to engage with younger individuals, encouraging them to get involved in the sport and providing guidance and mentorship. Repole's commitment to fostering the future of horse racing is a testament to his holistic vision for the industry's long-term success.

Challenging the Kentuckian Dominance

Repole's crusade for change extends beyond the borders of California, as he has also set his sights on the perceived dominance of Kentucky in the horse racing landscape. While acknowledging the state's significant contributions to the sport, Repole believes that a more balanced and inclusive approach is necessary for the industry's overall growth."Kentucky's done a lot of great things for racing," Repole concedes. "But if it only benefits the state of Kentucky then we're only going to be racing in the state of Kentucky in the next 10 years. All that purse money is going to go nowhere because there will be no interest."Repole's call for a more geographically diverse and equitable distribution of resources and attention within the industry reflects his broader vision for a thriving, nationally recognized sport.