Texas Racing Commission to learn about out-of-competition testing

The Texas Racing Commission was scheduled to hear a presentation on out-of-competition testing during its Tuesday meeting in Austin. New Mexico Racing Commission representatives Izzy Trejo and Ray Willis were scheduled to speak on the policy, which is in place in New Mexico.

There is no out-of-competition testing in Texas. The commission could form a committee to further study the topic, according to its options on the agenda.

◗ Delta Downs in Vinton, La., has reduced the takeout rate on its pick fours to 12 percent for its upcoming Thoroughbred meet, which opens Oct. 19. The takeout had been 25 percent.

◗ Preakness-winning trainer Keith Desormeaux said he has applied for stalls at the Fair Grounds meet, which opens Nov. 19 in New Orleans. Desormeaux also has horses at Santa Anita during the winter.