Following its launch phase in the U.S. in April, 2024, Light Up Racing will launch Phase 2 of its program, which includes further website development and new personnel, the organizers announced in a press release Sunday,
“The initial phase highlighted the crucial need for transparency and effective communication within the racing industry, with millions turning to LUR for reliable updates and insights,” the company said in the release. “LUR is ready to build on this success, driving further innovation and progress in the months ahead. During Phase 1, Light Up Racing provided timely updates on high profile horses, catering to the public's appetite for transparency and information. The organization highlighted the journeys of both winners and losers alike from major races during their recovery days, offering simplified explanations of medical issues. Valuable resources were created to address common concerns within the industry. These efforts enabled participants to confidently disseminate accurate information, effectively sharing industry progress while addressing misinformation.”
Price Bell, the LUR Chair, said, “We learned a lot in our first six months. We are encouraged by what we learned during these initial months of Light Up Racing. Because of everyone who volunteered, donated, learned, and most importantly engaged in the programming, we look forward to driving onto a follow up phase. Our initial work allowed us to try a variety of initiatives and determine what made real impact, and now, we are excited to continue this work into 2025.”
Bell continued, “As fundraising efforts prove to be successful, Light Up Racing will expand other programming areas proven to be impactful during Phase 1. Leveraging the power of social media is a clear area the Board identified for continuation as there is a tremendous need to to push out fresh content that speaks to the truth of horse racing. Bell noted, “It is important that the public hears about what we do from us. We get to tell our own story, authentically and transparently.”
LUR also said that they planned to continue to develop the website “into a comprehensive resource hub.”
Bell added, “Today's public expects immediate access to information, and silence during crises only fuels suspicion. We've been dedicated to helping industry organizations with guidance and arming our Light Up community with the right messaging to address misinformation and false narratives.”
Vicky Leonard, owner of the industry marketing company Kick Collective, will continue to play an instrumental role in shaping Light Up Racing's strategic direction. Light Up Racing has retained Amy Brin as a contracted interim Executive Director through Envision Consulting LLC. Brin brings over 20 years of national experience in building non-profit organizations and programming. Bell said, “Another thing we learned is that we need someone running the daily operations to really push things forward. It is important in a build that we capitalize on momentum.” A full-time executive director will be recruited during Phase 2.
To keep up to date with Light Up Racing plans, events and resource updates, visit www.lightupracing.com
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