Agenda

MONDAY, December 8

9:30-11:00 am | Salon L
Racing’s New Reality: A Management Workshop on Human/AI Collaboration
The horse racing industry is at a pivotal moment where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is evolving from a novel tool to an essential partner. The future belongs to those who embrace Human-AI collaboration—combining human intuition, experience, and judgment with AI's data processing power and predictive analytics.
This partnership creates competitive advantages across every aspect of racing: marketing teams leverage human creativity with AI-driven customer analytics and personalization; business intelligence professionals blend strategic insights with AI's real-time data processing; executives make informed decisions enhanced by AI predictive modeling; and compliance teams ensure regulatory adherence through human oversight paired with AI monitoring systems. Rather than replacing human expertise, AI amplifies it, creating possibilities neither could achieve alone.
This workshop will explore how racing professionals can harness this powerful partnership to transform their operations, make better decisions, and gain a decisive edge in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and tools to implement Human-AI collaboration in their own organizations.

Kathleen Kennedy – Professor of Practice, Retailing and Consumer Sciences, University of Arizona

9:30-11:00 am | Salon J & K
Management Decision Making to Support the Track Superintendent

Mick Peterson – Executive Director/Co-Founder, Racing Surfaces Testing Laboratory

9:30-11:30 am | Salon E & F
ARCI Model Rules Meeting
The ARCI Model Rules Committee will meet to consider presentations on any advance submissions for proposed additions or modifications to the “Model Rules of Racing” which embody the best regulatory practices for horse racing. Any additions or modifications recommended by the Model Rules Committee are then sent to the ARCI Board of Directors for review. The final decision on any additions or modifications will be made by the Board. This Committee meeting is open to the public.

Ed Martin – President, ARCI

11:00 am-Noon | Executive Boardroom
From Legal Disputes to Consensus: Expanding the Continuum of Options in Dispute Resolution
The horse racing industry, characterized by its unique challenges and high-stakes environment, often faces disputes ranging from contractual disagreements to regulatory compliance issues. Traditional complaint resolution, as well as other forms of institutionalized dispute resolution and litigation, often lead to prolonged disputes and adversarial outcomes with high visibility. In contrast, consensus of the parties, developed through collaborative and constructive Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methodologies, i.e., mediation and Early Dispute Resolution (EDR), offer more efficient and cost-effective options. This presentation explores the potential efficacy of mediation and EDR approaches as viable alternativesto current and past practices, as well as input on these approaches from the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA).

Richard Erhard – Principal & Founder, Richard Erhard and Associates, LLC
Sam Reinhardt – Assistant General Counsel, Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority
Peter Sacopulos – Senior Partner, Sacopulos, Johnson & Sacopulos

11:00 am-2:30 pm | Salon J & K
5th Annual Racing Secretary Summit

Chris Dobbins – Senior Vice President, InCompass Solutions
Rick Hammerle – Consultant, 1/ST Racing and Director of Racing, Kentucky Downs

11:30 am-12:30 pm | Salon L
Integrity Starts with Investigation
Without investigators, integrity in horse racing is only an aspiration. This session will highlight how professional investigative teams serve as the cornerstone of fairness, safety, and accountability in the sport. Speakers will discuss the essential skills, resources, and structures that make investigative programs effective, along with case examples showing how timely, thorough investigations protect both participants and the reputation of racing itself. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of why investing in investigative capacity is not optional—it’s vital to the future credibility of the industry.

Don Ahrens – ORI Integrity and Consulting Services
Jason Klouser – ORI Integrity and Consulting Services

Noon-2:00 pm | Executive Boardroom
Introduction to Equine Insurance for HISA Covered Persons
This HISA-approved session (2 CE hours) offers valuable continuing education for owners, trainers, and other covered persons. Participants will examine the major types of equine insurance coverage and engage in a breakout segment featuring real-world case studies. Through interactive discussion, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of coverage options, decision-making, and the claims process.

Joe Carr – Founding Partner, Equine Risk Management Group and Associates LLC

1:00-5:00 pm | Salon L
Calm, Clear, Credible: Responding When Racing’s Under Fire (Media Training Workshop) $50 pre-registration required
Public pressure is rising. So are expectations. Racing doesn’t get the benefit of the doubt anymore - and when questions come, they come hard and fast. This four-hour workshop is for anyone who believes in racing and wants to feel confident responding to criticism, whether it comes in a comments thread or across a dinner table. Board members, broadcasters, stable staff, owners... everyone has a part to play in shaping how the public sees our sport.
We’ll unpack real-life examples, practice handling uncomfortable questions, and show you how to turn tough moments into opportunities to share the truth and showcase progress. You’ll walk away with practical tools, message frameworks, and the confidence to stand up for racing when it matters most.
It’s not about spin. It’s about showing up with honesty, clarity, and knowledge - online and in real life.

Vicky Leonard – Founder & Managing Director, Kick Collective

2:00-3:00 pm | Executive Boardroom
Tote Q&A: Data Safety, Security, and the Future of Racing Wagers
Tote companies, racetracks, and the TRPB have made major investments in wagering integrity, including independent third-party timestamping and secure offsite storage, private and highly secure tote networks, and modern redundant data centers. As technology rapidly evolves, this panel explores emerging challenges, new security innovations, and the growing role of specialized firms in protecting the system. These innovations must align with regulatory frameworks to enhance bettor confidence and position the racing industry for a secure and data-driven future.

Karl Begg – Chief Technology Officer, Global Tote
Jay O'Neal – Senior Executive Vice President, Wagering Systems, AmTote
Shuran Wright – Manager, Business Analytics & Development, Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau
Moderator: J. Curtis Linnell – Executive Vice President, Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau

3:00-4:00 pm | Salon J
Systems Biomechanics of the Horse: Advancing Equine Athletic Research
The Systems Biomechanics of the Horse initiative integrates experimental, computational, and theoretical approaches to advance understanding of equine athletic performance and welfare. Using inertial measurement units and high-speed video, we quantify gait asymmetries in off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) during rehabilitation and retraining. Beyond detecting lameness, persistent asymmetries may reflect adaptations to unidirectional racing stress or prior injury. Multiphysics modeling extends this work to examine the mechanical stresses on joints, tendons, and bones during training, as well as cardiovascular and respiratory flows linked to sudden cardiac death (SCD), recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (roaring), and exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH).

Dr. Laura Miller – Professor of Mathematics and Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona

3:00-5:00 pm | Salon E & F
From Policy to Practice: HISA & HIWU Updates for Industry Stakeholders
Join HISA and HIWU representatives as they talk about topical issues and answer stakeholder questions.

Dr. Jennifer Durenberger – HISA Director of Equine Safety & Welfare
Marc Guilfoil – HISA Director of Stewarding & State Racing Commission Relations
Dr. Michael Hardy – HIWU Acting Chief of Science
Ann McGovern – HISA Director of Racetrack Safety & Liaison to Racetrack Safety Committee
Kate Mittelstadt – HIWU Chief of Operations
Ben Mosier – HIWU Executive Director
Sam Reinhardt – HISA Assistant General Counsel

3:30-4:30 pm | Salon J & K
Racing Wagering vs. Sports Betting: Capturing the Next Generation of Fans
With sports betting now more than 15 times larger than racing wagering, how can horse racing tap into that momentum — and should it?
Sports betting has rapidly reshaped the global wagering landscape, fueled by real-time data, interactive platforms, and new forms of fan engagement. Meanwhile, racing faces the challenge of connecting with younger audiences who expect dynamic, digital-first experiences. This workshop examines how racing can adapt within this evolving ecosystem — from leveraging technology and data innovation, to forging partnerships with sportsbooks, to reimagining the wagering experience itself. Should racing seek to align more closely with sports betting trends, or carve out a distinct identity to preserve its heritage while staying competitive?

Matthew Bertram – Vice President, Active Tracking Technology
Will Duff Gordon – Chief Operating Officer, Total Performance Data
Jack Hudspith – Managing Director, Ellipse Data
Moderator: Kyle McDoniel – President and Chief Operating Officer, Equibase

4:00-5:00 pm | Executive Boardroom
The Racetracks of America: From the Pre-Civil War Days to the 21st Century
Join us for an in-depth conversation on the origins and process of developing a one-of-a-kind book chronicling the history of America’s most historic and significant racetracks. Produced by the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in partnership with Keeneland Library, The Racetracks of America: From the Pre-Civil-War Days to the 21st Century is a seminal work that traces the evolution of American racing through the venues that played host to history. Brien Bouyea and Jay Hovdey will share insights into the origins and development of the book, highlight fascinating stories from both legendary and lesser-known tracks, and will examine the current state and future of America’s racetracks.

Brien Bouyea – Communications Director, National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
Jay Hovdey – National Columnist, BloodHorse Publications

5:00-6:00 pm | Exhibit Area
Opening Networking Reception Sponsored by Roberts Communications Network

TUESDAY, December 9

8:00-8:30 am | Salon A & B
Welcome & Keynote Address (Sponsored by Global Tote)

8:30-9:30 am | Salon A & B
Reinventing Racing’s Business Model: Lessons from State Battles and Policy Shifts (Sponsored by Ainsworth Game Technology)
Racing’s long-standing business model is under unprecedented strains as traditional revenue streams erode and competition intensifies. States across the country are confronting this reality in very different ways—some building collaborative reforms, others struggling with stalled policy battles, and still others shaping national precedent through the courts. This session brings together leaders and insiders to share on-the-ground insights from key case studies from a cross-section of states including Florida, Maryland and Kentucky.

Jon Moss – Executive Director, Iowa HBPA
Lonny Powell – CEO, Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association
David Richardson – Executive Director, Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association
Damon Thayer – Owner/President, Thayer Communications & Consulting LLC
Moderator: Mark Simendinger – Owner, Severn Consulting, LLC

9:45-10:45 am | Salon A & B
The Sustainability Algorithm: Balancing CAW Growth with Racing's Long-Term Health (Sponsored by AmWager)
The pari-mutuel landscape has fundamentally shifted. Computer Assisted Wagering (CAW) and high-frequency betting algorithms now compete alongside traditional handicappers in North America's racing pools, creating unprecedented challenges for the sport's sustainability and its relationship with everyday horseplayers. While professional betting has always existed in racing, today's CAW operations process thousands of wagers per second, leveraging sophisticated algorithms and rebate structures that can fundamentally alter market dynamics. This technological evolution raises critical questions: Are current market structures serving all participants fairly? How do rebating programs affect pool integrity and the betting experience for recreational players? What guardrails, if any, should racing operators implement?

Scott Daruty – President, Monarch Content Management & Elite Turf Club
Dr. Marshall Gramm – Professor of Economics, Rhodes College
Eric Halstrom – VP and General Manager of Racing, Horseshoe Indianapolis Racing & Casino
David O’Rourke – President & CEO, The New York Racing Association
Maury Wolff – Retired Professional Gambler
Moderator: Pat Cummings – Executive Director, National Thoroughbred Alliance (NTA)

10:45-11:45 am | Salon A & B
Building the Future of Racing: Major Construction Projects Transforming America’s Tracks (Sponsored by International Sound Corporation)
From New York to Maryland to Kentucky, a wave of ambitious construction projects is redefining the landscape of American horse racing. This panel brings together industry leaders at the forefront of these efforts to share how strategic design decisions, innovative fan experiences, sustainability initiatives, and cutting-edge amenities are shaping the tracks of tomorrow. Panelists will also explore the financial blueprints behind these developments, from public-private partnerships and municipal bond financing to the role of historical horse racing (HHR) machines in turning visionary plans into reality.

Todd Gralla – Director of Equestrian Services, Populous
Bill Knauf – President & General Manager, The Maryland Jockey Club Inc.
Larry Lucas – Chairman, Revolutionary Racing
Andrew Offerman – Sr. Vice President of Racing & Operations, The New York Racing Association
Moderator: Alan Foreman – Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Associations, Inc.

Noon-1:15 pm | Kiva Ballroom
Luncheon, Awards and Presentations (Sponsored by New York Racing Association)

1:30-2:45 pm | Salon A & B
The Winningest Symposium Panel in Racing History: 24,450 Victories. One Stage. (Sponsored by Lip Chip)
Four of the sport’s most celebrated jockeys will share one stage, bringing with them a legacy that spans more than six decades of Thoroughbred racing excellence. These Hall of Fame legends will reflect on the strategic decisions made in the heat of competition, the physical and mental resilience required to stay at the top, and the unique bonds forged with trainers, owners, and the horses that carried them to glory. Through personal stories and defining moments, they will reveal the lessons learned in the saddle and the values that have endured beyond the finish line. This rare, once-in-a-lifetime conversation honoring racing’s past promises to inspire and entertain.

Steve Cauthen – Hall of Fame Jockey
Ramon Dominguez – Hall of Fame Jockey
Chris McCarron – Hall of Fame Jockey
Laffit Pincay Jr. – Hall of Fame Jockey
Moderator: Jay Hovdey – National Columnist, BloodHorse Publications

1:15-3:00 pm | Executive Boardroom
International Tote Protocol Meeting

3:00-4:00 pm | Salon A & B
Riding Together: Supporting Mental Wellness in Racing. (Sponsored by United Tote Company)
The pressures of horse racing extend far beyond the track. Long hours, physical risk, intense competition, and emotional demands take a heavy toll on the mental well-being of jockeys, trainers, grooms, and all industry professionals. This candid, solutions-focused panel brings together industry voices and mental health advocates to explore these challenges, share personal journeys, and highlight resources for support. Innovative programs like Horses For Mental Health harness the healing power of horses to provide therapeutic care and emotional support. Panelists will address stigma, access to care, and strategies to foster a healthier, more compassionate culture within the sport and beyond.

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

4:00-5:00 pm | Salon A & B
Race for the Crown: Engaging Fans and Energizing the Future of Horse Racing. (Sponsored by Sky Racing World)
The Race for the Crown series is captivating fans by spotlighting rising stars and delivering high-stakes competition that brings fresh excitement to horse racing. This panel will explore how the series is transforming fan engagement—building deeper connections, expanding audiences, and creating new ways for fans to experience the thrill of the sport. Industry experts, organizers, and participants will share insights on innovative fan experiences, digital outreach, and community-building efforts that are fueling the sport’s growth and securing its future. Join us to learn how Race to the Crown is redefining what it means to be a horse racing fan.

Peter Rotondo – Senior Vice President of Racing and Wagering, 1/ST Racing
Ian Sambor – Executive Producer, Race for the Crown
Moderator: Amy Zimmerman – Senior Vice President & Executive Producer, Santa Anita Park

5:00-6:00 pm | Exhibit Area
Evening Networking Reception. (Sponsored by Kentucky Downs)

WEDNESDAY, December 10

8:00-8:15 am | Salon A & B
Welcome & RTIP Senior Capstone Presentation. (Sponsored by Del Mar Thoroughbred Club)

Nathan Klein – RTIP Student

8:15-8:45 am | Salon A & B
Racing’s Success Stories: The Year in Review. (Sponsored by New York Racing Association)

Ian Cummings – Founder & CEO, Third Time Games
Bryan Pettigrew – Vice President and General Manager of Texas Racing Operations

8:45-9:15 am | Salon A & B
Legislative Update & HISA State of the Union (followed by Q&A). (Sponsored by National Thoroughbred Racing Association)

Tom Rooney – President & Chief Executive Officer, National Thoroughbred Racing Association
Lisa Lazarus – CEO, Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority

9:15-10:15 am | Salon A & B
Wagering 2.0: Prediction Markets, Sweepstakes, and the Regulatory Shakeup of Traditional Betting Models (Sponsored by SIS Content Services)
The betting landscape is undergoing a seismic shift with the rise of prediction markets, sweepstakes and other platforms challenging traditional wagering models. Under the regulatory oversight of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), prediction markets have potential to overshadow sports and horse racing betting. This panel dives deep into how emerging platforms are disrupting existing betting markets and the ongoing legal actions aiming to protect existing operators. Join industry leaders for a candid discussion on navigating the delicate balance of the regulatory frameworks.

Dustin Gouker – Principal, The Closing Line Newsletter
Andrew Kim – Partner, Goodwin Proctor
Moderator: Michele Fischer – Vice President, SIS Content Services

10:30-11:30 am | Salon A & B
Strength in Numbers: Innovative Approaches to Boosting U.S. Thoroughbred Breeding. (Sponsored by The Jockey Club)
As the Thoroughbred foal crop continues to decline across the United States, the numbers outside of Kentucky are particularly alarming, with many states experiencing steep and unsustainable drops in breeding activity. This panel brings together diverse voices from across the industry to confront these challenges head-on and explore bold, practical solutions. From innovative incentive programs to policy reforms, the discussion will highlight models that can reinvigorate regional breeding programs. Special focus will be given to multi-state efforts, including case studies in the Midwest and Southwest that demonstrate how collaboration across regulatory lines could create new opportunities and reverse downward trends. Attendees will gain insight into how unified efforts, smart incentives, and out-of-the-box thinking can help secure the future of Thoroughbred breeding and racing across the country.

Harris Auerbach – Managing Partner, Auerbach Racing
Jamie Haydon – Deputy Executive Director, The Jockey Club
Diana McClure – Board Member, Virginia Thoroughbred Association
Mike Tanner – Executive Vice President/CEO, United States Trotting Association
Ismael Trejo – Executive Director, New Mexico Racing Commission
Moderator: Paul Ryneveld – Director, Horse Racing Alberta & Co-Founder of 10Acres Solutions

11:30 am-12:15 pm | Salon A & B
Straight From Repole: An Unfiltered Look at Racing's Future (Sponsored by National Thoroughbred Alliance)
In one of the most anticipated sessions of the Symposium, Mike Repole joins live via Zoom for a no-holds-barred Q&A. Known for his outspoken candor and unwavering passion for the sport, Repole will answer pre-submitted questions directly from the racing community. With nothing off limits, he'll deliver insights on the challenges facing the industry, the opportunities ahead, and what it will take to secure horse racing's future. This is a rare chance to hear straight from one of the sport's most influential and unapologetically honest voices. Submit your questions by visiting HERE

Mike Repole – American Entrepreneur, Businessman, and Racehorse Owner
Moderator: Christina Blacker – Host and Analyst, FanDuel TV

12:15-1:30 pm | Ventana Room
Mentor Luncheon (by invitation) (Sponsored by Lip Chip)

1:30-2:45 pm | Salon A & B
Turf Publicists of America Mark Kaufman Workshop
The Most Impactful Feed in Horse Racing: How Influencers Are Changing the Game (Sponsored by Roberts Communications Network)
The rise of social media influencers like Griffin Johnson is revolutionizing the marketing of horse racing by sparking new interest and driving deeper engagement among younger and more diverse audiences. This panel will explore how influencer-driven content can grow the sport’s fan base, energize existing fans, and create authentic connections that extend beyond the racetrack. Industry leaders, marketing experts, and influencers will discuss strategies to harness this momentum—modernizing the sport’s image, expanding its digital footprint, and fueling long-term growth in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.

Griffin Johnson – Influencer
Rachel Miller – Digital Marketing Manager, America's Best Racing
Jessica Paquette – Announcer, Parx Racing
Moderator: Kaitlin Lively – CEO, Co-Owner, GSS The Marketing Agency

2:45-3:45 pm | Salon A & B
From Run-Ups to Reliability: Fixing Timing Accuracy in U.S. Racing (Sponsored by Daily Racing Form)
Horse racing’s deep-rooted legacy also brings complex challenges. Practices like “run ups,” a wide range of starting gate positions, and race lengths that can vary by several feet or even yards, create a sport that is uniquely difficult to measure and analyze compared to global standards. At the center of the issue is timing and tracking. GPS remains the industry’s primary tool, yet it is widely acknowledged as imprecise. Building wagering platforms, fan products, and integrity measures on a shaky foundation raises real risks for racing’s future. As competition for attention and trust intensifies, with other sports setting ever-higher benchmarks for accuracy and transparency, racing cannot afford to fall behind. With so much betting revenue reliant on reliable data, strengthening timing and measurement systems is not just a technical upgrade; it is an urgent step to protect integrity, build confidence, and secure long-term growth. This panel will delve into practical solutions to improve racing data and bettor confidence.

Scott Little – Vice President, Racing Services, Equibase Company
Craig Milkowski – Timing Analyst
Greg Pachman – General Manager, StrideSAFE
Maurice Timmermans – Head of Equine Technology, MYLAPS Sports Technology
Moderator: Randy Moss – On-Air Announcer, NBC Sports

3:45-4:45 pm | Salon A & B
Outside the Box: New Strategies, New Initiatives, New Innovations (Sponsored by Caesars Entertainment)
It’s all too easy to become caught in the rhythms of our day-to-day, focusing on familiar challenges while overlooking the evolving world beyond horse racing. But real growth often comes when we step outside of our industry silos and our comfort zones to explore how others are innovating, adapting, and thriving. This panel brings together leaders from other industries to share the bold strategies, initiatives, and innovations they’ve embraced to drive success across key metrics like revenue, viewership, attendance, and customer engagement. By highlighting what’s working in other industries, this session aims to spark fresh thinking within the racing industry by inviting attendees to reimagine what’s possible when we think outside the box and challenge the status quo.

5:00--6:00 pm | Exhibit Area
Closing Reception. (Sponsored by 1/ST TECHNOLOGY)

Agenda subject to change