Edited Fairplex Park press release

Jerry McMahon, founding president and general manager of Barretts Equine Limited, said Dec. 8 he was resigning from the  Southern California-based auction firm.  His resignation will take effect Jan. 3, 2009.  

 “I’ve had a great 20-year run at Barretts and with the Los Angeles County Fair Association,” said McMahon in a prepared statement. “At this stage in my career, I feel it’s now time for me to look at new opportunities.  I have full confidence in the future of Barretts; our staff is second to none.  Our two vice presidents, Bill Baker and Kim Lloyd, are among the top equine auction executives in the industry.  I want to express my appreciation to Jim Henwood, chief executive officer of the Fair Association, and the entire Fairplex team for our years together.  It’s been a joy working with everyone.”
  
Said Henwood: “We are truly sorry to see Jerry go.  He has been the driver of Barretts’ success over the years. We are very thankful for all that he has done for the industry and for the Fair Association. He has established a strong foundation for our future success.”

McMahon could not be reached for further comment.