The second annual Horse Racing Women's Summit, to be held Sept. 27-29 at Santa Anita, will include three panel discussions, morning and luncheon keynotes and a Friday morning workshop.
Zoe Cadman, XBTV and 1/ST RACING Host and Analyst, will serve as the emcee for the event, which will kick off with a keynote from Reagan Cannon, an international leadership speaker and coach. Following the morning keynote, leaders at the front line of industry change will gather for a discussion on the State of the Industry, moderated by Millie Ball, XBTV and 1/ST RACING simulcast host.
State of the Industry featured speakers are: Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin; horse racing reporter Britney Eurton; HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus; and equine veterinarian Casille Batten.
The second panel, titled Running the Show, will feature a conversation among industry professionals in various facets of management from racetracks across the county. Moderator Michelle Yu will guide the panelists through a discussion focused on their careers, the ins-and-outs of racetrack management, current events, and their outlook on the future.
“I am a firm believer in the philosophy that 'a rising tide raises all ships' and this sport is so much better when we are able to come together, elevate and support each other,” said Jessica Paquette, Parx Racing announcer and Running the Show panelist. “I am honored to join so many women I respect in the industry for an event that is sure to be educational and empowering.”
Other Running the Show featured speakers are: SVP and General Counsel, Sports and Entertainment at New York Racing Association Joi Garner; SVP, Operations and Administration DMTC Ann Hall; and SVP and Executive Producer for Santa Anita Amy Zimmerman.
The third panel discussion, led by FanDuel TV's Christina Blacker and titled Looking Forward, will delve into a variety of topics including diversity, mental health, the backstretch community, and how the industry can improve.
Karen Chavez, General Manager of the New York Race Track Chaplaincy, who will join the Looking Forward panel said, “Attending the HRWS Meet Up in Saratoga was an inspiring experience that showcased the power of connection and empowerment within the horse racing industry, leaving a positive and lasting impact on the women of the backstretch community. I am excited to be on a panel at the second Horse Racing Women's Summit at Santa Anita Park, and continuing to build on the momentum that began one year ago.”
Looking Forward speakers also include: trainer and equestrian Chanel Minnifield; Los Angeles Chargers CAO Catherine Iste; and Amplify Horse Racing executive director Annise Montplaisir.
Friday's hands-on workshop is designed to identify areas of focus and specific action items for the Horse Racing Women's Summit Committee in 2024.
Tickets for the Horse Racing Women's Summit can be purchased here.
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