Iowa HBPA Engages Industry Veterans Johnsen, Thayer to Chart Vision for the Future of Iowa Horse Racing

The Iowa Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (Iowa HBPA) is proud to announce the engagement of two nationally recognized industry leaders—Corey Johnsen, President of CJ Thoroughbreds, and Damon Thayer, President of Thayer Communications & Consulting—for a consultancy focused on securing a vibrant future for horse racing and breeding in Iowa.

The partnership will focus on crafting a comprehensive roadmap to sustain and grow the state’s equine industry. Both consultants will assist the Iowa HBPA in strategic meetings with stakeholders such as Prairie Meadows, Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC), and Iowa Thoroughbred Breeders & Owners Association (ITBOA) promoting policies that support racing, breeding, and economic vitality across Iowa.

Damon Thayer: From Racetrack Roots to Legislative Triumphs

Damon Thayer brings unmatched depth in both racetrack operations and public policy. Beginning his career hot-walking and grooming horses at Hazel Park and Detroit Race Course, Thayer’s trajectory includes key roles in track publicity, communications leadership at Turfway Park, Laurel Park, Thistledown, Pimlico and executive management with Breeders’ Cup Ltd. His work included overseeing the Breeders’ Cup event management and helping operate Kentucky Downs.

A former Kentucky State Senator (2003–2024) and Majority Floor Leader (2013–2024), Thayer spearheaded groundbreaking legislation such as the 2021 bill that protected Historical Horse Racing (HHR), enabling Kentucky to offer the highest overall purses in the nation. He also played a central role in passing sports-wagering legislation, creating breeder incentive funds and modernizing pari-mutuel wagering laws. Thayer is a 2024 recipient of the Warner L. Jones Jr. Horseman of the Year Award and will be inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame later this year.

Currently, Thayer advises multiple jurisdictions through his firm, Thayer Communications & Consulting LLC, and remains actively involved as a racehorse owner through partnerships with CJ Thoroughbreds.

Corey Johnsen: Visionary Track Developer and Racing Advocate

Corey Johnsen brings over 40 years of multifaceted experience, ranging from groom and horse owner to racetrack president and innovator. Johnsen is best known for transforming Kentucky Downs into one of America’s premier boutique turf tracks during his tenure as president and part-owner from 2007 to 2019. Under his leadership, Kentucky

Downs pioneered the use of HHR terminals as a game-changer for funding purses and growing the local racing economy.

Johnsen’s impact extends beyond Kentucky. He has led or been instrumental in launching racetracks in Oklahoma, Texas, Mexico City and Uruguay and helped bring the Breeders’ Cup to Lone Star Park in 2004. He has served as chairman of the Kentucky Equine Education Project (KEEP), advancing multi-breed education and economic initiatives.

Now serving as President of CJ Thoroughbreds and a board member of several equine organizations, Johnsen remains dedicated to collaboration with horsemen, civic leaders and racing entities to improve industry economics and regional prosperity.

A New Vision for Iowa

“This is a pivotal moment for Iowa racing,” said Iowa HBPA Executive Director Jon Moss. “Damon and Corey bring the expertise, relationships and track record necessary to help us craft and implement a plan that strengthens our industry, protects Iowa-bred interests, and positions us as a leader in the Midwest.”

The Iowa HBPA looks forward to working closely with these nationally respected consultants to ensure that racing and breeding continue to be a source of pride, opportunity, and economic growth in Iowa for years to come.

The post Iowa HBPA Engages Industry Veterans Johnsen, Thayer to Chart Vision for the Future of Iowa Horse Racing appeared first on National HBPA.