Former Keeneland executive Chauncey Morris plans to vacate his position as chief executive officer of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and sister organization Aushorse Marketing and return to the United States.
Morris, a former sales marketing executive with Keeneland, told both boards that his intention to return to the U.S. by August was for personal reasons. He was named CEO of both Australian groups in October 2011 and has been instrumental in raising the profile of the Australian Thoroughbred around the world.
Aushorse Marketing chairman Antony Thompson along with newly named Thoroughbred Breeders Australia president Basil Nolan expressed their gratitude to Morris for his hard work and commitment for the past 2 1/2 years.
"We congratulate him on many achievements, including the successful carriage of the AI case (read related story on Australia's artificial insemination case here.), the expansion and exploration of many export markets, in particular the USA, where we have seen a dramatic increase in their involvement and investment in our industry."
On his accomplishments on behalf of both groups, Morris said: "Any success in my role is attributed to my wonderful staff, directors, and sales companies who have worked tirelessly to promote and protect Australian breeders. Australia stands tall on the world stage due to an unending determination to improve the status quo in racing."
Morris added that he and his family wanted to return to the United States to be closer to their families.
"We will miss this special country and the great friends made during our time here," he said.
Morris worked with Keeneland on behalf of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association/Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders to establish an emerging markets program. Joining Keeneland's staff in 2006 after working as a trade specialist in the administration of former Kentucky Gov. Paul Patton, he is credited with successfully implementing a worldwide strategy to expand Thoroughbred ownership.
Both Australian boards announced a search for a new CEO will begin immediately. Both boards also unanimously decided to explore a merger between TBA and Aushorse Marketing.
Nolan, who with his wife, Diane, owns Raheen Stud in Queensland, succeeds Trevor Lobb, who also resigned. Lobb served as president of TBA since September 2008.
Nolan is currently president of the Thoroughbred Breeders Queensland Association and has served on that group's board since 1969 and on the national body since 2005.
"Trevor's resignation is a big loss to the TBA and I'm sad to see him go," Nolan said.
