Rationale for Racing Commission Approval

Once sanctioned in a single jurisdiction, IRR races could potentially be distributed nationally through multiple Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW) platforms and simulcast networks operating within the existing pari-mutuel ecosystem.

IRR meets the traditional statutory definition of horse racing because each race consists of multiple entrants competing on horses over a defined course, producing an indeterminable finishing order suitable for pari-mutuel wagering. In this respect, IRR shares the same fundamental wagering characteristics as Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Arabian, and other recognized racing disciplines currently regulated by state racing commissions.

Importantly, IRR would not require the creation of a new category of gaming or legislative expansion of gambling authority. Rather, the initiative would seek authorization under existing pari-mutuel racing authority through approval and recognition by an existing state racing commission.

Accordingly, Horse Nations Racing Group, LLC, on behalf of the Horse Nation Indian Relay Council (HNIRC), would present a professional and regulator-focused proposal to selected racing commissions seeking recognition of IRR as a regulated pari-mutuel racing category within the state. Alternatively, Horse Nations Racing Group, LLC may request authorization for a limited pilot program beginning in 2026 consisting of exhibition races conducted at licensed racing meets under veterinary and safety oversight, with optional pari-mutuel wagering on championship or final events once predetermined safety and operational benchmarks are achieved.

Horse Nations Racing Group, LLC would propose a conservative, regulator-friendly implementation strategy utilizing a phased approach. The first phase would consist of exhibition races without wagering in order to demonstrate operational procedures, safety protocols, and officiating standards. The second phase would introduce limited pari-mutuel wagering, initially restricted to final or championship events, allowing regulators and host tracks to evaluate integrity, operational performance, wagering stability, and public reception before broader expansion occurs.

Over time, the format could evolve into expanded wagering structures, including multi-heat and full-meet wagering programs, once operational consistency and regulatory confidence are established.

State racing commissions may view the proposal favorably because IRR offers several tangible economic, cultural, and tourism-related benefits to the host jurisdiction. These include increased hotel, restaurant, and tourism spending; expanded rural and Tribal economic opportunities; preservation and recognition of historic Indigenous equestrian traditions; support for Indigenous athletes, breeders, trainers, and horsemen; and cooperative partnerships with Tribal Nations without requiring Tribal gaming compact negotiations.

IRR already possesses many of the core characteristics necessary for pari-mutuel racing viability, including competitive race structure, spectator appeal, cultural distinctiveness, and strong live-event presentation. What the sport currently lacks is the opportunity to operate within the regulated, safety-oriented, and integrity-based environment provided by state racing commissions.

To support regulatory approval, HNIRC and Horse Nations Racing Group, LLC would develop and submit a comprehensive rulebook specifically designed to align with the operational and integrity standards commonly required within regulated horse racing. The proposed framework would include rider safety standards, mandatory helmets and safety vests, rider and team licensing procedures, veterinary and medication protocols, pre-race inspections, post-race cooldown procedures, ARCI-aligned medication standards, injury reporting requirements, on-site emergency medical personnel, event liability insurance, risk mitigation procedures, officiating standards, and enforcement mechanisms.