Industry has to work more together to meet racing challenges of in 2006, according to NTRA Commissioner D.G. Van Clief, Jr. in The Blood-Horse.

Much as been achieved in 2005, like the new partnership with ESPN/ABC Sports, the introduction of a new ad campaign, Breeders' Cup-branded Xbox and PlayStation games, a strengthened presence on Capitol Hill, which helped to introduce the Equine Equity Act, and records for handle and purses at the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at Belmont Park.

The challenges for 2006 include the continuous development of an integrated platform that includes network and cable television, Internet, broadband, on-demand, mobile, and other digital content delivery methods.

The Office of Racing Integrity is also a top priority for 2006, which aims to upgrade the security of wagering systems. With respect to lobbying, racing will have to combat any threats to our ability to conduct legal wagering.

NTRA will also be working to sustain the global prominence of the Breeders' Cup brand, grow event handle and purses, and attract non-industry revenue to the game.