American Horse Council President Jay Hickey will retire effective June 30. He held that position since 1993 and served on the AHC staff for 27 years. As president, Hickey oversaw the group’s lobbying efforts and communicated with equine constituencies regarding equine-related legislation. He was instrumental in defending racing’s position during the National Gambling Impact Study Commission in the late 1990s that threatened all forms of gambling. Hickey plans to remain in Washington, D.C., after his retirement.
AHC Chairman Jerry Black said, “In his quiet and unassuming manner, Jay Hickey closely observed every issue that could have some effect on the American Horse Council’s constituents and then provided them with astute guidance for more than two decades. He has been a beacon of integrity, a trusted colleague, and a good friend to countless people in the horse industry.”
The AHC represents the thoroughbred industry, but adopts a neutral stance when the interests between breeds are in conflict—a challenging role for the president who must avoid the appearance that the organization favors one side over another, which could upset one or more constituencies.
The AHC said it has formed a search committee to identify Hickey’s successor.
