For the reasons I will explain, a democratic, head-to-head vote--Rachel Alexandra v. Zenyatta-- is the only way to make the Horse of the Year decision.

Breeders' Cup 2009 was outstanding. Competitive from top to bottom. Inclusive of many of the best horses from around the world. Maddeningly hard to predict for even the most skilled horse player. Life changing for the single winner of the $1.8 million BC Pick Six. And thrilling to the very end.

I have written a lot lately about the importance of wagering to the overall economic health of Horseracing. Contrary to what some might think, though, I am equally passionate about the many opportunities to sell horse racing as the exciting sporting competition that it is. And no racing competition is more exciting than the Breeders' Cup World Championships. In fact, the Breeders' Cup is a great time...

Betfair, the London-based online wagering juggernaut that purchased TVG earlier this year, is making further inroads into North American racing.

This week, it was my pleasure to speak to a very passionate, engaging (and some might say courageous) group of young men and women who make their living in the Thoroughbred industry. The next generation of leaders in our industry is already meeting monthly with the goal of devising a long term plan for racing and breeding through the year 2020.

Last week I told you I would be speaking to marketers from across the country at the NTRA's Marketing Summit in Las Vegas. I asked for your ideas and you responded -- man, did you ever respond! I received almost 50 substantive, insightful, passionate responses.

Next week, it's my privilege to speak to marketers from racetracks and ADWs across the country at the NTRA's Annual Meeting and Marketing Summit in Las Vegas. I plan to speak frankly about the challenges Thoroughbred racing faces.

Here are a couple of fun, new ways to get ready for this year's big event.

My strong suspicion is that Rachel will win the 2009 Horse of the Year award even if she takes the rest of the year off. The only possible way it could turn out any differently is if Zenyatta wins the Breeders' Cup Classic, or defeats Rachel head-to-head at some other venue.

Last Friday night, Animal Planet rolled out the season premiere of its high energy show "Jockeys" to critical and industry acclaim.

What do the Thoroughbred industry - including horseplayers - and the Obama administration have in common? At least one thing. We both need a stimulus package.

In the midst of preparations for our strategic planning session next week, I have traveled to Del Mar to lead another Alliance accreditation inspection as I did at Hollywood Park several weeks ago.

With all of the negative news surrounding our industry, what should Thoroughbred racing do to emerge from this slump? These are questions we will be asking ourselves over the next few weeks and months as we convene a meeting of the NTRA Board of Directors to discuss the strategic direction of the NTRA going forward.