Mental Wellness in the Spotlight at 2025 Global Symposium on Racing

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Race Track Industry Program
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

TUCSON, AZ — Mental health takes center stage this December at the 51st Annual Global Symposium on Racing, hosted by the University of Arizona’s Race Track Industry Program at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson. Among this year’s impactful discussions is the panel Riding Together: Supporting Mental Wellness in Racing.

While horse racing is known for its physical demands and high-stakes competition, the emotional toll on its workforce often goes unseen. This session brings together a cross section of industry professionals and mental health advocates to share lived experiences and highlight resources aimed at improving mental well-being across the sport. The panel will explore the often-overlooked pressures faced by jockeys, grooms, trainers, and backstretch workers, talk about ways to improve access to care and emotional support, highlight programs like Horses For Mental Health that use the healing power of horses, and discuss how the industry can break down stigma and better support mental wellness overall.

Featured Panelists: 

  • Bailey Armour, Marketing Manager, 1/ST Technology (Moderator)
  • Trevor McCarthy, Retired Professional Jockey
  • Sally Mixon, Executive Director, Abijah’s Hope
  • Tasha Saunders, VP of Operations, OnRise
  • Lynn Thomas, Co-Founder/President, Horses for Mental Health

The session will be held during the Symposium, which runs December 8–10, 2025, and features a full slate of panels, workshops, and networking opportunities with global industry leaders. Registration is now open, with discounted rates available for early sign-ups. For event details, speaker updates, and lodging information, visit visit RacingSymposium.com