Lavin named chairman of Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation

Kevin Lavin, a partner in an insurance firm specializing in equine policies whose family has long been involved in racing, has been named the chair of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, the organization announced on Tuesday.

Lavin, whose mother served on the Kentucky Racing Commission and whose father is a renowned equine veterinarian, was formerly vice chair of the foundation, and he has been a board member since 2010. He replaces Dell Hancock, who has been chair since 2004.

The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is the largest private funder of equine research in the U.S., typically awarding $1 million a year in grants toward studies involving equine health.

Geoffrey Russell, who retired in 2021 after a long career at Keeneland in its auction department, was named vice chair. Russell has been on the Grayson board since 2005.

In addition, Mandy Pope, the owner of Whisper Hill Farm and a prolific Thoroughbred breeder and auction buyer, was elected to the board. Former board members Donald R. Dizney and John Oxley were both named directors emeritus.

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