Lonny Powell Discusses Decoupling and the Florida Thoroughbred Industry
Tucson, AZ — Students in the Race Track Industry Program were treated this week to two lectures by Lonny Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA), in ACBS 442-Racing Business, Strategies, and Global Perspectives class.
Lonny has held a multitude of positions in the racing industry. He has served in executive roles at numerous racetracks including Longacres, Turf Paradise, and Santa Anita Park. He also had stints as Executive Vice President of racing operations for Magna Entertainment Corporation and CEO and President of Racing Commissioners International. Lonny is an RTIP alum and a former director of the program.
In the first lecture, Lonny explained decoupling and its potential impact on the Florida racing and breeding industry if the practice is legalized. He discussed the FTBOA’s position on decoupling and its commitment to keeping decoupling out of Thoroughbred racing. He emphasized that leaders in the racing industry must stress to legislators that the racing and breeding industry have a significant economic impact on the state of Florida.
On the second day, Lonny provided an overview of the FTBOA and racing operations in Florida. He informed students about Florida’s importance as the location of 10% of the North American foal crop each year as well as the site of dozens of training centers and the home of several Kentucky Derby hopefuls each winter. Out of all of Lonny’s positions in the racing industry, he admitted that he found his tenure as Director of the Race Track Industry Program to be his most rewarding experience.