A free speaker series addressing current topics in the racing industry has been scheduled for the fall, it was announced Monday by the University of Louisville's Equine Industry Program (EIP). Prominent industry figures are scheduled to be part of the panel discussions, which begin Sept. 22.
“Our previous panels have focused mainly on the racetrack, however this year we have added a panel exploring the new dynamic occurring in Kentucky horse sales,” said Sean Beirne, director of the EIP. “The sales companies have shifted the way horse sales are conducted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, completely changing the way horses are purchased and sold. We have a number of students who want to work as bloodstock agents upon graduation and this will give them insight as to how the business landscape is changing.”
The Sept. 22 event is titled “Racing's Now Reality: Is it Sustainable?” Mike Penna, the owner of Horse Racing Radio Network, will moderate. Speakers include Fonner Park's CEO, Chris Kotulak; Canterbury Park's vice president of racing operations, Andrew Offerman; West Point Thoroughbred's Terry Finley; and Jack Jeziorski, who is with Monarch Content Management, a subsidiary of The Stronach Group.
Next up is “Waiting for the Gavel to Fall: Kentucky Horse Sales Go High Tech,” scheduled for Oct. 13. On-air personality Megan Devine will moderate and guests will include Fasig-Tipton's president and CEO Boyd Browning; either Duncan or Mark Taylor from Taylor Made Sales Agency; and bloodstock agent David Ingordo.
The series will conclude Nov. 10 with “An Evening with Hall of Fame Jockey Pat Day.” Interviewed by Beirne, Day will discuss his life both on and off the track.
All events are slated for 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. on their respective dates and will be broadcast live on the Horse Racing Nation Facebook page.
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
