The Texas Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association held its first 2004 Board of Directors meeting in Austin on February 20. At the meeting, Jim Helzer of Arlington, Texas, was re-elected for a second one-year term as the organization’s president. In addition, Ted Abrams of Houston, Texas was re-elected for a second one-year term as the THBPA’s vice president.

The THBPA’s three 2004 representatives on the Texas Horsemen’s Partnership (THP)’s management committee were also chosen at the board meeting. Helzer, who served on the management committee in 2003, will serve again in 2004. Jerry Windham of College Station, Texas, will also serve again in 2004. New to the management committee this year will be L.R. “Tooter” Jordan of New Braunfels, Texas, who is replacing Brad Bolen.

In other board business, the board reaffirmed its commitment to representing horsemen in the quest to get Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) legalized in Texas. The directors stood firm on their position that horsemen should get a fair and equitable share of the revenue proceeds and ensure that the Texas horse racing industry remains competitive and healthy for all of its participants.

The board heard reports from lobbyist Reggie Bashur concerning the legislative landscape. They also heard from Manor Downs’ CEO Howard Phillips regarding plans for the upcoming mixed meet at that track. Additionally, the staff provided several reports and updates concerning the ongoing operations of the organization and the industry at large.