Keeneland Magazine

NO2 2016

Keeneland, Investing in Racing's Future since 1936.

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12 SUMMER 2016 K KEENELAND.COM SUMMER 2016 president's message When I frst began at Keeneland as chief fnancial offcer, I remember some very close friends asking my wife, Barbara, "Is Bill's position full time?" I often chuckle when thinking about that question because it seems our people and this place never rest. With a facility that is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, it is hard not to stay busy. As much as we would love to fip that prover- bial light switch every April and October for our race meets and in September, November, and January for our auctions, the off-season months allow us to reload and prepare for these spectac- ular events that showcase the fnest Thorough- breds and Central Kentucky's famed Bluegrass region. Truthfully, it is hard to say Keeneland even has an off-season anymore; we work just as hard during the summer and winter, keeping our historic venue park-like and welcoming as a destination for our many visitors from around the country and the world. Even when Keeneland isn't racing or conduct- ing sales, our facility offers so much year-round for our community and guests to experience. Many fans come out to watch horses train over the main track each day from dawn until 10 a.m. It is a must to stop by our legendary Track Kitch- en where one can enjoy a hearty breakfast while chatting with Thoroughbred trainers and owners — some of whom are world-renowned. For those just as interested in the history of Keeneland and Thoroughbred racing, the Keeneland Library is open to the public every weekday. We also offer guided walking tours of the grounds four days a week, and self-guided tour maps are always available on our website, Keeneland.com, and in the Keeneland Shop. And who could forget our Keeneland Shop, where locals and guests come to purchase items exclusive to Keeneland so ev- eryone can share a little piece of this magnifcent place. In addition to all of the above, Keeneland's hospitality, special events, and promotions teams work diligently during the off season to host weddings, rehearsal dinners, celebratory parties and dinners, run/ walks, and charitable events on the grounds. I hope each of our readers receives the opportunity to attend one of these unique events to see just how hard we work to extend our gracious hospitality and premier venue far beyond our race meets and sales. Our maintenance and special projects teams pride themselves in the meticulous upkeep of Keeneland's more than 1,000-acre campus. They take advantage of the months when we don't host as many fans to work through reno- vations and new projects as we continue to revitalize our 80-year-old facility. And as for the rest of us, we are traveling the world to foster relationships with horsemen, sponsor races across the globe, recruit potential buyers and sellers to our auctions, inspect yearlings for the September sale, and generally continue the day-to-day activities that keep Keeneland on the cutting edge of our industry and opera- tionally sound. We are a hard-working team that considers ourselves a family. Each of us has made a promise to one another, our community, and the horse industry to continue the mission of leadership and exemplary quality set forth by Keene- land's founders. Although we love to relax, share time with our families, and make the most of the days that are slower paced, we all strive to provide our guests with a memorable Keeneland experience, whether during opening weekend of the spring meet or on a beautiful day in July. We look for- ward to sharing Keeneland with you all year long! KM BILL THOMASON President and CEO Year-round mission

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