Headquartered in the horse country of Cecil County, Thoroughbred Racing Associations of North America, Inc. has played a leading role in the establishment of many programs beneficial to the racing industry since its creation in 1942.
Thoroughbred Racing Associations (TRA) grew after its first conference in 1942, becoming its prestige and large 42-member based association. These 42 members within the TRA represent more than 85% of total handle in the United States and Canada when it comes to the horse racing industry, with Maryland’s own Laurel Park, National Steeplechase Association (NSA) and Pimlico Racecourse as part of the member base. Not only does the TRA serve its members and vice versa, but the TRA also has played a leading role in the establishment of many other programs beneficial to the racing industry.
In order to preserve the integrity and security in racing, the Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau was established in 1946 and maintains the most extensive, private collection of records on individuals and horses today. In a more public setting, the TRA also established the Eclipse Awards in 1971. The Eclipse Awards are named after the great 18th-century racehorse and sire Eclipse, who was undefeated in 18 starts. The Eclipse Awards are presented annually to recognize Thoroughbred horses and individuals whose achievements have earned them the title of Champion in their respective categories, and to members of the media for outstanding coverage of Thoroughbred racing.
Aside from the Protective Bureau and the Eclipse Awards, the TRA also created a committee devoted to deal with evolving technology and grab the bull by the horns in terms of the evolutions of horse racing since TRA’s inception to present day.
To learn more about the Thoroughbred Racing Associations of North America, please visit their website for more information.
