Gabbert resigns Keeneland post to run Lexington soccer franchise
Vince Gabbert, who has served in a variety of top management positions at Keeneland for the past 14 years, has resigned from the racing and sales company to focus on the professional soccer team that he has helped launch in Lexington, according to Keeneland.
Gabbert was first hired by Keeneland in 2009 as the company’s vice president and chief operating officer. He was later given the title of vice president of strategic initiatives and legislative affairs and guided Keeneland’s lobbying activities.
Last year, Gabbert was hired as the president of the Lexington Sporting Club, a professional soccer franchise that is scheduled to begin play in the United Soccer League in 2023. The owner of the club is William Shively, a Thoroughbred owner and breeder and the owner of Dixiana Farm in Central Kentucky.
“During his 14 years at Keeneland, Vince played an important role in numerous strategic initiatives and legislative efforts to further strengthen Kentucky racing,” Keeneland said, in a statement. “We thank Vince for his many contributions for the betterment of Keeneland and the Thoroughbred industry.”