The Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance board elected two new directors for 2026 at its Dec. 15 meeting. For a second consecutive year.
Directors beginning service in 2026 are Drew Fleming, president and CEO of Breeders' Cup Limited, and Elliott Walden, president / CEO and racing manager of WinStar Farm.
Walter S. Robertson, Jr., a member of the law firm Stites & Harbison, PLLC, will serve as president of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
"I am honored to continue serving as President of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and grateful for the continued confidence of the Board of Directors," said Robertson. "It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate group of industry leaders whose leadership and generosity are fundamental to advancing our shared mission. Together, we will continue to build upon the strong foundation of accredited aftercare to ensure a safe, dignified, and meaningful future for Thoroughbreds after their racing careers."
Drew Fleming is President and Chief Executive Officer of Breeders' Cup Limited, which and operates the Breeders' Cup World Championships. Since being elected CEO in 2019, Fleming has overseen growth in global participation, wagering, media distribution, and strategic partnerships. Under his leadership, the Breeders' Cup has expanded internationally through the Challenge Series and Global Pool and advanced safety and integrity initiatives.
Elliott Walden is President, Chief Executive Officer, and Racing Manager of WinStar Farm and a third-generation Kentucky horseman. A former Eclipse Award—winning trainer, he trained 1998 Belmont Stakes (G1) winner Victory Gallop and was a multiple leading trainer at both Churchill Downs and Keeneland. Walden was named President and CEO of WinStar Farm in 2010 and has overseen one of the industry's premier breeding and racing operations, including 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify.
The recently appointed directors will join the current board, which is comprised of Tony Allevato, Craig Bandoroff, Laura Barillaro, Donna Barton Brothers, Price Bell, Dr. Jeffrey Berk, Christina Blacker, Boyd Browning, Aidan Butler, Dr. Bonnie Comerford, Larry Connolly, Joe De Francis, Georganne Hale, Melissa Hicks, Jay Privman, Walt Robertson, Dean Roethemeier, Yvonne Schwabe, Mark Simendinger, Barbara Vanlangendonck, and Ric Waldman.
After dedicating years of expertise, leadership and resources, Madeline Auerbach, Tom Cannell, and Jack Damico will conclude their service on the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Board of Directors at the end of 2025
