The Stronach Group, which runs the racetrack, will focus on “consolidating, invigorating and innovating” their horse racing by relocating Berkeley’s horses and employees to the company’s Southern California venues, according to a Sunday statement. “We recognize that the decision will have profound effects on our valued employees as well as the owners, trainers, jockeys and stable personnel at Golden Gate Fields,” said Belinda Stronach, CEO and president of The Stronach Group, in the same statement. “The Stronach Group is committed to honoring labor obligations and developing a meaningful transition plan.” This closure comes after the racetrack’s eighth horse death of the year and cries of animal cruelty. A petition from animal rights group Direct Action Everywhere demanding Berkeley and Albany shut down Golden Gate Fields garnered more than 39,000 signatures. In 2020, there was also an outbreak of COVID-19 at the racetrack, and more than 200 people living and working there tested po...