O’Cain named to Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation's board

New York breeder Suzie O’Cain has been elected to serve on the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s board of directors.

O’Cain and her husband, Dr. C. Lynwood O’Cain, managed Highcliff Farm in Delanson, N.Y., for 23 years, helping to bring the farm to national prominence. Following the death of Highcliff owner Carl Lizza in 2011, the O’Cains successfully transferred the farm’s breeding operations to Mill Creek Farm in Stillwater, N.Y. last summer.

Highcliff at Mill Creek will stand Bob and John, Congaree, Cosmonaut, Maybry’s Boy, Smart Bid, and Stonesider for 2013.

O’Cain has served nine terms on the board of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders and also serves as a director of Thoroughbred Women Inc. and is a past president of that organization. She has served as co-chairwoman of the Political Action Committee of the NYSTB and as chairwoman of its media committee. She founded Find A Cure Stable LLC to race horses for the benefit of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“There is no one I know who could bring as much positive energy, love, and understanding of both horses and horse care, and hands-on farm management expertise to the TRF,” TRF chairman John Moore said. O’Cain “also had years of experience in dealing with bureaucrats and politicians in Albany, and that is an area where we can certainly use some help. I am thrilled that she has joined our leadership team.”

O’Cain’s addition brings the board membership to nine.

“I have known and admired Suzie for years,” said Diana Pikulski, director of external affairs. “The depth of her involvement in Saratoga’s racing and social life will be a great asset to the TRF. I look forward to working closely with her to build our ties to this wonderful community.”

The TRF was founded in 1983 and is based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.