Hutt elected as president of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association

Robert Hutt, a horse owner and breeder based in Pennsylvania, has been elected president of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association, which represents owners and trainers who race at Parx Racing outside Philadelphia.

Hutt, who is president of Uptowncharleybrown Stud, will replace Salvatore DeBunda, who has been president of the group since 2011. The Pennsylvania THA administers horsemen’s programs and has taken a larger role in lobbying the state legislature over the past decade in order to protect subsidies that flow to the industry from casinos. It also runs Turning For Home, an aftercare organization that Hutt is involved with.

“As president of the PTHA, one of my top priorities is expanding our fan base and introducing a new generation to the thrill of live racing,” Hutt said in a press release. “From a horsemen’s perspective, I’m committed to ensuring that we have a level playing field for all horsemen, from the smallest trainer to the largest stables. Every trainer, regardless of size, deserves the same respect and an opportunity to earn a living in this industry.”

Members of the PTHA also elected three new individuals to the organization’s board, including owners John Fanelli and John Julia and trainer Robert Butch Reid. The board seats have three-year terms.

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