Empire Racing Associates (ERA), a New York horsemen and breeder bidding entity, announced the appointment of Dennis Brida as executive vice president of racing operations/industry relations April 25.

"We are fortunate to have a person of Dennis' stature join our staff," said Jeff Perlee, CEO of ERA. "His experience in the New York racing
industry is second to none. As a horsemen, breeder, and native of New York, he knows the issues and challenges facing the industry and understands what it will take to revitalize the state's racing."

Originally from Brooklyn, Brida was previously the executive director of the New York Thoroughbred Breeders for four years, during which he helped double their membership. Also a former president of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association, Brida's involvement in the state's Thoroughbred industry spans more than 25 years.