Two executives retire from Thoroughbred Owners of California
Mary Forney and Jack Owens have retired from executive positions with the Thoroughbred Owners of California, the organization announced on Thursday.
The retirements were effective Friday. The TOC is the state’s official horsemen’s representative on regulatory and legislative matters as well as business with racetracks on issues such as purses.
Forney, based in Southern California, joined the TOC as director of operations in 2004 and became executive director in 2016, a title she held until this week. She previously worked for the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and at Santa Anita as simulcast coordinator.
Owens, based in Northern California, served as a member of the board of directors since 1996. He was the longest-serving member of the board and was chairman for six years, the TOC said in a statement. Owens, an attorney who has owned horses for more than 30 years, also served on various committees regarding legislation and purses.
Owens did not seek reelection to the board this year and has been replaced by Northern California-based owner Johnny Taboada, the TOC said.
Forney will be replaced by Jordyn Egan, who starts the position on July 20. Egan was an intern with the TOC in 2006. Her husband, Jason, is Santa Anita’s racing coordinator. Jordyn Egan has a recent background with the Maryland Horse Breeders Association.