The National Thoroughbred Racing Association has altered the roles of several staff members to reflect priorities for 2005 as well as its long-term strategy, commissioner D.G. Van Clief Jr. said in a Dec. 20 release. The changes take effect Jan. 1.Greg Avioli, who has served as chief operating officer, will become executive vice president of legislative and corporate planning. Avioli, who has spearheaded political and legislative activities for the NTRA, will establish an office in Washington, D.C.Damon Thayer, formerly vice president of Breeders' Cup and event marketing, will serve as vice president of Breeders' Cup event management. He will be responsible for production of the World Thoroughbred Championships.Peggy Hendershot, formerly vice president of legislative and industry affairs, has been named vice president of legislative and corporate planning. She will continue to oversee the NTRA political action committee and assist Van Clief with corporate communications and planning.Terry Meyocks, formerly special assistant to the commissioner, will serve as vice president of NTRA racing and industry memberships. He will head field operations for the NTRA's industry relations programs, including horsemen and racetrack memberships as well as the legislative action campaign, which raises funds for federal lobbying. Meyocks will report to Keith Chamblin, senior vice president of marketing and industry relations.Fritz Widaman (marketing/NTRA Purchasing), Connie Bishop (finance), and Tim Schram (human resources) all were promoted to the level of senior director in their respective divisions. Ragan Montemayor, the NTRA's associate counsel, assumed the title of director. Pamela White has been promoted to senior manager of sponsorships.
Van Clief said the level of input from key consultants Basil DeVito Jr., Gordon Kane, Isidore Sobkowski, and Chip Tuttle would increase as the organization devises its strategic plan.