(Monday, January 13, 2003) - The Texas Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association’s 2003 Board of Directors met in Austin on Saturday, January 12, 2003 and elected to keep Jim Helzer as its Board President.

Mr. Helzer was elected to that post last year and the THBPA board unanimously felt that he should hold that post for another year. They also elected Houston horsemen Ted Abrams to the position of Vice President.

In other business they welcomed new board members Manuel Gonzales and L.R. “Tooter” Jordan and expressed their appreciation to outgoing board members Tiffany Tobias and Darrell Hooper. They also considered issues relating to renewing the horsemen’s contract with Manor Downs, including the amount of purse money that will be available for Quarter Horse races during the upcoming spring meet.

The THBPA board also appointed a committee to explore possible scenarios and make recommendations to the board regarding 2004 race dates. The directors were particularly concerned about Quarter Horse racing opportunities at Lone Star Park next year due to the fact that the track will host the Breeders’ Cup at the time it typically conducts its fall Quarter Horse meet. The committee is expected to report back to the board at its next regular meeting.

The meeting coincided with the Texas Quarter Horse Association’s annual meeting and banquet at the Omni Hotel.