From the TRI Media Team / Jennie Rees:

TRI’s Thayer statement after Gulfstream decoupling bill fails

Industry coalition pivots to determining stronger, stable path forward
Statement from Thoroughbred Racing Initiative senior advisor Damon Thayer after the Florida Legislature adjourned today with the Senate declining to act on a bill that would have permitted Gulfstream Park to retain its slots license without having live horse racing:

“We are proud that, for the second year in a row, decoupling legislation before the Florida Legislature has been defeated by our industry-wide coalition representing owners, trainers, breeders, veterinarians, sales companies and the many small businesses that create the thoroughbred industry’s massive ecosystem. We are appreciative of the lawmakers who understand the $3.2 billion annual economic impact and 33,500 jobs at stake in Florida’s horse racing, breeding and training agribusiness.

“But our work is far from done. Now TRI and our coalition partners will pivot toward creating a path forward for a stronger Florida thoroughbred industry that provides long-term stability and prosperity. Let’s be clear: We want Gulfstream Park to be part of that future, but we’re also planning alternatives. This legislative offseason, we’ll be tirelessly working with our friends in the Legislature on statutes, where necessary, that will ensure the Sunshine State’s signature thoroughbred industry not just survives but thrives for decades to come.”

Media contact:

Damon Thayer, TRI senior advisor

damonthayer@aol.com
About the Thoroughbred Racing Initiative (TRI)

The Thoroughbred Racing Initiative (TRI) was founded in February 2025 as an industry collaboration providing funding and resources to oppose Florida legislation for decoupling, which would allow tracks to keep their gaming licenses without conducting live horse — the original statutory requirement in place to protect one of the state’s signature industries. The TRI was founded by Ocala Stud general manager David O’Farrell (TRI president), prominent owner-breeder Jon Green of DJ Stable (TRI vice president); trainer Mark Casse, a member of both the North American and Canadian racing halls of fame; Dr. Barry Eisaman, a veterinarian who with wife Shari operates the full-service farm Eisaman Equine in Williston, and Aron Wellman, president and founder of Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners. One of TRI’s first actions was bringing aboard as senior advisor Damon Thayer, who spent most of his 22 years in the Kentucky State Senate as the majority floor leader while championing horse-industry legislation. Leading industry organizations were brought in, including the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Co., National Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association, Tampa Bay Downs HBPA, Florida HBPA and the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association. Other racing and breeding associations, farms, industry-related businesses and individuals across the country have made financial contributions in support of protecting live racing. To donate, please click here.