HISA names 19 to Horsemen’s Advisory Group

The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority has named 19 individuals to its Horsemen’s Advisory Group, a committee that was formed earlier this year in the midst of immense pushback from the training and veterinary community.

The members include trainers, owners, veterinarians, farriers, and employees of racing offices and backstretch organizations. HISA said that it considered 250 applicants for the 19 open positions, and that the starting members would serve either one- or two-year terms, to open up positions on a staggered basis.

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HISA announced the formation of the group in August. Trainers and backstretch workers have been some of the most outspoken critics of HISA’s policies since a set of rules governing racetrack safety practices went into force on July 1. HISA’s drug-testing and medication control program is set to be implemented on Jan. 1.

“I know that HISA will benefit immensely from this group’s extensive, hands-on experience in Thoroughbred racing as we continue to work with all industry stakeholders to advance the safety and integrity of our sport,” said Lisa Lazarus, the chief executive officer of HISA, in a release.

HISA said that the group will meet once a month, starting in November, “to provide feedback to the Authority’s executive team and Standing Committees.”

Trainers appointed to the body include Mark Casse, Kelsey Danner, Tom Drury, Donnie K. Von Hemel, Tim Keefe, Ron Moquett, and Graham Motion. Richard Schosberg, a trainer who has announced that he will be retiring at the end of this year, will serve as a representative of aftercare organizations, along with the former trainer Linda Gaudet.

Owners and breeders who were appointed to the group include Rick Gold, Fred Hertrich III, David Ingordo, Frank Jones, Maggi Moss, and Kirk Wycoff. Two veterinarians, Sara Langsam and John Piehowicz, were appointed, along with one farrier, Thomas Trosin. Tom Robbins, an executive vice president at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, was appointed as a racing office representative.

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