HISA Expands Advisory Group with Top Racing Figures
Strengthening Thoroughbred Racing: New Voices Join HISA's Advisory Ranks
Leading Trainers and Industry Veterans Bolster HISA's Advisory Group
In a significant development for the equestrian sports community, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority has announced the appointment of renowned trainers Jena Antonucci and Bob Baffert, as well as the reappointment of Timothy Keefe, to its esteemed Horsemen’s Advisory Group. This expansion is designed to inject fresh insights and extensive experience into the body tasked with guiding the sport’s evolution.
The Evolving Role of the Horsemen’s Advisory Group
Established in 2022, the Horsemen’s Advisory Group serves as a vital conduit for formal feedback, channeling insights from active racing participants to HISA’s executive leadership and standing committees. This collaborative approach ensures that the ongoing enhancement of HISA’s racetrack safety initiatives and the anti-doping and medication control framework remains robust and relevant.
Acknowledging Contributions and Welcoming New Perspectives
HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus expressed deep gratitude to the departing advisory group members, Kelsey Danner, Gavin Murphy, and Jonathan Sadler, for their invaluable service and insightful contributions. Lazarus highlighted how their expertise significantly strengthened efforts to uphold safety and integrity in Thoroughbred racing. She further conveyed enthusiasm for the incoming members, anticipating the fresh perspectives they will bring to the ongoing collaborative endeavors aimed at elevating the sport for all stakeholders.
A Diverse Collective of Racing Minds
The Horsemen’s Advisory Group comprises 18 members, representing a broad spectrum of viewpoints from across the racing industry. Its diverse composition includes trainers, owners, bloodstock agents, representatives from horsemen’s associations, and veterinarians. This wide array of expertise ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex challenges and opportunities within Thoroughbred racing.
Jena Antonucci: A Trailblazer in Racing
Jena Antonucci, an accomplished Thoroughbred trainer and lifelong equestrian, holds the historic distinction of being the first woman to win a Triple Crown race, a feat she achieved with Arcangelo’s victory in the 2023 Belmont Stakes. Beyond managing a thriving racing stable, Antonucci contributes her leadership to the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association board and the New York Jockey Injury Compensation Fund. She is also the co-founder of horseOlogy, a comprehensive Thoroughbred training and ownership organization based in Ocala, Florida, and its non-profit extension, horseOlogy Encore, dedicated to Thoroughbred aftercare.
Bob Baffert: A Hall of Fame Legacy
Bob Baffert, an inductee into the Hall of Fame, is celebrated as one of American horse racing’s most successful trainers. Operating from California, Baffert has guided numerous champions, including Triple Crown winners American Pharoah and Justify. His illustrious career spans over four decades, marked by a record number of victories in prestigious races such as six Kentucky Derbies, eight Preakness Stakes, three Belmont Stakes, and 21 Breeders' Cup races. His multiple Eclipse Awards further underscore his enduring impact at the pinnacle of the sport.
Timothy Keefe: A Dedicated Advocate for Maryland Racing
Timothy Keefe, a long-standing Thoroughbred trainer based in Maryland, previously served as president of the Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association and currently holds the position of vice president. A member of the MTHA board since 2005, Keefe has been a leading proponent for Maryland racing, playing a key role in major industry initiatives, including the redevelopment of the state's racing infrastructure. He has trained multiple stakes winners and serves on the boards of the Maryland Horsemen's Assistance Fund and Maryland Million, demonstrating his deep commitment to the welfare and advancement of the sport.