Bo Derek Appointed Commissioner of California Horse Racing Board

Derek's first strike as commissioner? Banning anabolic steroids in time for the 2008 Breeders' Cup.

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger this week appointed Hollywood actress Bo Derek to commissioner of the California Horse Racing Board. Derek, an animal rights activist, along with six other CHRB panelists, will help govern the state's $4 billion racing industry, including its many controversial issues in wagering, medication and safety.

When asked if she intended to 'rock the boat' with her own personal opinions on animal welfare, Derek said: "Definitely not. I don't think I have to. I don't think it's necessary. I think we are all like-minded."

One of the first accomplishments of the newly formed board was banning the use of anabolic steroids, which will be in effect by the Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita on October 24-25. That will make the 2008 Breeers' Cup the first "anabolic-free Breeders' Cup in the history of the event," said Rick Arthur, the board's medical director.

Knowing that, you have to wonder what kind of an effect that will have on Rick Dutrow's decision to run Big Brown in the Breeders' Cup. (Dutrow maintains his horse doesn't need steroids to run a strong, fast race.)

Read more on Bo Derek's appointment to the CHRB and how the new ban may affect the upcoming Breeders' Cup here.

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