The Jockey Club Welcomes New Stewards and Members, Bolstering Leadership and Expertise
The esteemed Jockey Club has recently fortified its leadership and expanded its membership, welcoming two new stewards and ten distinguished individuals from across the Thoroughbred industry. This strategic move aims to inject fresh perspectives and diverse expertise into the organization, reinforcing its commitment to the integrity and advancement of horse racing.
The Jockey Club Reinforces Leadership and Broadens Expertise with Key Appointments
In a significant development for the Thoroughbred racing community, The Jockey Club officially announced the appointment of Joe Appelbaum and C. Steven Duncker as its newest stewards. Concurrently, Everett R. Dobson was re-elected to continue his pivotal role as chair. This decision, made on August 31, 2026, ensures continuity while introducing new leadership to guide the organization's future endeavors. The existing board of stewards, including Vice Chairman William S. Farish Jr., Gary Fenton, Terry Finley, Treasurer Ian D. Highet, Marc Holliday, Bret Jones, Secretary William M. Lear Jr., David O’Farrell, and Vincent Viola, will continue their dedicated service.
Furthermore, The Jockey Club has extended invitations to ten accomplished professionals to join its ranks as new members for the year 2026. These individuals represent a broad spectrum of the Thoroughbred world, bringing invaluable experience from breeding, ownership, sales, and administrative roles. Among the newly elected members are Carrie Brogden, co-founder of Machmer Hall, celebrated for breeding and selling champions like Tepin and Flat Out. Michael Dubb, a prominent owner and CEO of The Beechwood Organization, is recognized for his advocacy for backstretch workers and his successful racing stable, which includes Kentucky Oaks winner Monomoy Girl.
Bob Edwards, founder of e5 Racing Thoroughbreds, has made a significant impact as an owner and breeder, campaigning Grade 1 winners such as New Money Honey and Good Magic. Peter J. Fluor, an oil executive and co-principal of Speedway Stables, boasts a multi-generational involvement in racing and has campaigned notable champions like Corniche. Greg Goodman, owner of Mt. Brilliant Farm, is lauded for his land conservation efforts in the Bluegrass region and his extensive leadership roles within the Thoroughbred industry. Gretchen Jackson, co-owner of Lael Stables, was a joint recipient of the Eclipse Award for outstanding owner and is famously associated with the beloved Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro.
Josh Rubinstein, President of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, has been instrumental in the track's growth and successful hosting of the Breeders' Cup. Mark Taylor, President and CEO of Taylor Made Farm, is a key figure in sales and breeding, also known for his philanthropic efforts through the Stable Recovery program. Jonathan Thorne, a seasoned owner and breeder with deep roots in New York racing, has cultivated his expertise across various prestigious breeding operations. Lastly, Tom Ventura, President of Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co., has dedicated his career to the sales sector and is actively involved with the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Membership in The Jockey Club is a testament to an individual's significant contributions and unwavering commitment to Thoroughbred breeding and racing, aligning with the club's overarching mission. Candidates undergo a rigorous nomination and election process by current members and the board of stewards, underscoring the exclusivity and prestige of this esteemed body, which currently comprises 143 members.
The expansion of The Jockey Club's leadership and membership marks a forward-thinking approach to ensure the organization remains robust and adaptive in the ever-evolving landscape of horse racing. The inclusion of such a diverse and experienced group promises a rich exchange of ideas and a strengthened resolve to uphold the sport's traditions while embracing future challenges and opportunities.