Amplify Horse Racing is excited to announce the addition of Damon Thayer and Lisa Hendricks to its Board of Directors. Their involvement enhances the organization’s leadership as it continues its mission to engage young people in the Thoroughbred industry through education and career opportunities.
Damon Thayer is the CEO and founder of Thayer Communications & Consulting LLC, offering strategic communications and advisory services to the Thoroughbred sector. He also acts as a senior advisor to the Thoroughbred Racing Initiative, which works to preserve live racing in the U.S. Thayer served in the Kentucky Senate from 2003 to 2024, including 12 years as Majority Leader, where he championed key local industries like horse racing. Before his political career, he held leadership roles at Breeders’ Cup, Turfway Park, Maryland Jockey Club, and Thistledown. Additionally, he co-founded Kentucky Senator Spirits LLC, makers of the award-winning Kentucky Senator Bourbon. With a degree from Michigan State University and as a partner at CJ Thoroughbreds, Thayer brings extensive experience in communications, marketing, and public policy to the industry.
“Having recently retired from the Kentucky State Senate, I wanted to find a way to give back to the horse racing world I deeply care about,” said Thayer. “Amplify Horse Racing’s mission is critical, and I am honored to join the board to help connect young people with industry careers.”
Lisa Hendricks, an entrepreneur and longtime Thoroughbred advocate, focuses on creating modern, accessible entry points into the industry. She founded Wanamaker’s, one of the first U.S. Thoroughbred online auction platforms, which was acquired by Inglis in 2024; she now serves on Inglis Digital USA’s board. A graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start program, Hendricks brings expertise in digital strategy and race operations from her international experience. She has worked with Starlight Racing and currently reports on steeplechase racing for the New York Horse Racing Association. Coming from a family with deep roots in Pennsylvania horse racing, Hendricks is passionate about attracting new audiences and supporting Amplify’s youth initiatives.
“The future of Thoroughbred racing relies on engaging and inspiring the next generation,” Hendricks said. “Amplify’s meaningful, modern approach excites me, and I’m eager to contribute to expanding its reach.”
Thayer and Hendricks join Amplify Horse Racing’s committed leadership team. For more details about the board and staff, visit amplifyhorseracing.org/leadership.
Amplify Horse Racing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to connecting young people to education and career paths in the Thoroughbred sector through classroom programs, mentorship, and immersive experiences. To learn more or donate, visit amplifyhorseracing.org or follow the organization on social media.
This article was originally published by Paulick Report on December 22, 2025.
Fan Take: The inclusion of seasoned leaders like Damon Thayer and Lisa Hendricks signals a strong commitment to nurturing the next generation in Thoroughbred racing. Their diverse expertise and passion could help invigorate the sport by opening new pathways for youth engagement and career development, ensuring the industry’s vibrant future.
