Mike Pegram has been selected by the Thoroughbred Owners of California (TOC) to receive the 2022 Ed Friendly Industry Service Award, also known as the Chairman's Award. The award is presented annually to recognize outstanding contributions and service in the Thoroughbred racing industry. Among former recipients are some of the most prominent names in California racing, including Mace Siegel, John Harris, Bob and Beverly Lewis, Jerry and Ann Moss, and Clement Hirsch.
Pegram served on the TOC board from 2010 to 2019 and as Chairman of the Board from 2012 to 2016. During his tenure as chairman, he successfully steered the organization through tumultuous times, leaving TOC in a strong operational and financial position. He was incredibly committed to the future of our racetracks, our purse structure, and the health of our sport.
In 2010, TOC successfully supported passage of SB 1072, which provided for a takeout increase with all of the additional revenue going to purses. Over the next several years, Pegram led the board in fending off attacks from within the industry to repeal or modify the legislation, standing firm in his commitment to protect the 1072 purse contributions, which have since provided tens of millions of dollars in much needed purses to California horsemen.
Widely known for being one of the friendliest and most fun-loving horsemen in the sport, Pegram credits much of his success in racing to the fact that he put his trust in long-time trainer Bob Baffert, who Pegram supplied with many of the trainer's biggest stars.
Pegram has campaigned many outstanding runners, including champions Real Quiet and Silverbulletday, and Dubai World Cup winner Captain Steve. He has also campaigned many graded stakes runners with his two longtime partners, Karl Watson and Paul Weitman, including champion sprinter Midnight Lute, champion Lookin At Lucky, Cave Rock, Hoppertunity, Pretty N Cool, Midnight Lucky, Fiftyshadesofhay, Executiveprivilege, and Coil.
“Mike is an exceptional leader who continues to make a lasting impact on both this organization and California racing,” said TOC Chairman Gary Fenton. “His dedication, hard work, and commitment are an inspiration to all of us, and we are proud to honor him with this well-deserved award.”
Pegram will be recognized at TOC's Southern California Annual Meeting at Del Mar on Aug. 12.
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