The University of Louisville Equine Industry Program (EIP), with the support of the racing news website, Horse Racing Nation, announces the Fall 2021 speaker series focusing on the most current topics in the horse racing industry. The free series, to be held in person this year on the UofL campus, includes panel discussions on the “Super Card” trend in racing and growing racing through diversity and inclusion.
“In the speaker's series, we really look to advance discussion on the issues and not rehash previous discussions,” said Sean Beirne, director of the EIP, part of the College of Business. “I think our panel on how racing can grow through diversity and inclusion really will focus on the many new opportunities for young professionals, especially those with new and exciting ideas.”
The final event in the series will be an interview with Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, a Houston business owner, Thoroughbred owner and philanthropist. McIngvale placed a $2.4 million dollar wager on “Essential Quality” in this year's Kentucky Derby, making the wager on-track and tying the bet to promotions at his business, Gallery Furniture in Houston.
The events will be held from 5:30 – 6:45p.m. in the locations indicated, as well as broadcast live on the Horse Racing Nation Facebook page.
Sept. 14 – “Examining Horse Racing's 'Super Card' Trend,” Horn Auditorium – UofL College of Business
Most every racetrack combines their biggest stakes into “Super Card” days in an effort to appeal to fans and stand out in the simulcast marketplace. Does this take away too much from the purse account and diminish excitement of the rest of the meet?
• Eric Halstrom – vice president and general manager of racing, Indiana Grand Racetrack & Casino
• Ben Huffman – vice president, racing and racing secretary, Churchill Downs and Keeneland
• Jon Moss – executive director, Iowa HBPA Inc.
Panel moderated by Jude Feld, racing analyst and contributor, Horse Racing Radio Network.
Oct. 12 – “How Racing Can Grow Through Diversity and Inclusion,” UofL Student Activities Center
An in-depth look at how racing can grow through embracing diversity and inclusion. Panelists will explore advancements being made at the racetrack, in horse ownership and through youth education.
• Jason Wilson – chief operating officer, 1/ST Content
• Greg Harbut – founder and president, Harbut Bloodstock
• Ron Mack – executive director, Legacy Equine Academy
Panel moderated by Alicia Hughes – digital content editor, TVG/FanDuel.
Nov. 9 – “An Evening with “MATTRESS MACK,” aka Jim McIngvale,” UofL Student Activities Center
The series concludes with an entertaining evening with Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale. Owner of the Gallery Furniture retail chain, McIngvale is a Houston businessman and philanthropist known for his work ethic and continuous innovation. He also owns and races Thoroughbreds, including the 2015 Sprint Champion, “Runhappy.” He is known in racing circles for his strong opinions on the sport, horses running medicationfree and supporting the ecosystem of horse racing by placing wagers at the racetrack instead of advance-deposit wagering accounts.
The events are free, but tickets are required. For more information and tickets, contact Kimberly Spear at kimberly.spear@louisville.edu or 502-852-7727.
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