from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — U.S. Trotting Association President Phil Langley announced Friday that James J. (Jay) Hickey, who announced that he will be retiring from his position as president of the American Horse Council on June 20, 2016, will be the recipient of the annual USTA President’s Award.

Langley will make the presentation at the USTA Board of Director’s Recognition Luncheon at the Hilton Columbus at Easton (Ohio) on Sunday (Feb. 28).

“Jay’s (Hickey) leadership at the American Horse Council has not only been important to harness racing, but has meant a lot to the entire horse racing industry,” said Langley. “He has always kept us informed about the significant happenings in Washington, D.C. and has helped lobby for many important things beneficial to horse racing. Hopefully, they will be successful in finding someone like Jay to replace him.”

Hickey has been President of the American Horse Council since 1993. The AHC represents the horse industry in Washington, D.C. before Congress and the federal regulatory agencies. The Washington-based organization includes more than 120 equine organizations representing every segment of the horse industry. AHC membership includes individual horse owners, breeders, veterinarians, trainers, farriers, jockeys, drivers, recreational riders, racetracks, horse shows, state horse councils and other stakeholders in the horse industry.

During Hickey’s tenure, the AHC has been involved in virtually every major federal law and regulation that affected the horse industry. This includes breeding, racing, showing, health and welfare, and recreation.

Under Hickey’s direction, new committees were formed to represent specific segments of the horse industry. The AHC also coordinated economic impact studies on the state and national level and was a driving force behind the formation of the Congressional Horse Caucus, the Congressional Cavalry, the Unwanted Horse Coalition, and the AHC’s marketing alliance, known as Time to Ride.

Also at the Recognition Luncheon, District 3 Director Chris Schick will be presented with a Director’s Service Award by Langley for his 20 years of continuous service on the USTA’s Board of Directors.