The horse racing world saw a predominant number of thoroughbreds come from Kentucky, Massachusetts, Illinois, and even New York. Meanwhile, California faced a thirty-year-long drought in the thoroughbred breeding industry. Recently, the state introduced a “Cal-bred” incentive program to revitalize the industry and encourage more horse owners to purchase more California-bred horses. The upcoming Fasig-Tipton California Fall Yearlings and Horses of Racing Age sale will give the perfect opportunity to assess the program’s success.

The one-day yearling sale will attract many prominent buyers on the West Coast. Before the sale begins on Tuesday, September 26, successful equestrian trainer Mike Machowsky unveiled his top picks, promising a potential game-changer in California’s racing season.

Equestrian expert’s top picks for horse racing season

Mike Machowsky has collected over $25,158,120 in his career earnings, which should assert the credibility of his opinion. This one-day sale will introduce some of the most promising young talents to California’s horse racing circuits. The total catalog comprises 60 horses that have attained racing ace and 283 other yearlings. According to Thoroughbred Daily News on Twitter, Mike Machowsky said, “If you race in California, you have to have Cal-breds in your barn. If you want Cal-breds, this is about the only place where you can find them”. He acts as the Fasig-Tipton’s California representative and plays a huge role in promoting the breeding industry in the state.

Machowsky complimented the new crop, saying, “I think this year’s catalog is just as strong or stronger than last year’s”. He evoked the memory of the sale of Mr. Big from last year as a young colt for $115,000. The magnificent horse justified that hefty price tag by winning the California-bred GI Cotillion on Saturday. Cashing Big Checks is a sister to this champion and will be part of Tuesday’s sale. Among the horses to look out for are Cal-bred stallions coming from Bolt d’Oro, Good Magic, Hard Spun, Ghostzapper, and many more. Mike Machowsky has gone above and beyond to promote the cause of Cal-bred horse racing and remind everyone of its advantages.

Mike Machowsky advocating for Cal-Bred horse racing

Machowsky spoke from his years of horse training experience, saying, “You need a balance in your stables and a lot of trainers and owners realize that”. He also reminded everyone of the huge benefits of entering Cal-bred horses in California racing. He further emphasized that the quality of mares in California has gone up in recent years. The breeders have also produced many foals with remarkable qualities.

Read More: “Honestly Thought That This Was True”: Equestrian Once Cleared Misconceptions on Strength of Different Colored Horses

In this regard, Machowsky said, “If you look at the racing in general out here, Cal-breds are very important to the whole market out here”. However, the horse racing industry in California has faced a huge struggle in recent years, with many tracks, such as the Golden Gate, closing its doors. Will this affect the sale, or will the sale inject new life into the struggling industry? Comment with your thoughts below.

Watch This Story: 61-Year-Old Woman Faces Lifetime Ban After Being Convicted for Negligence Towards 131 Horses