The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association Board of Directors has elected owner Richard J. Meyer as it’s new President and Dale Capuano, one of Maryland’s all-time leading trainers, as Vice President. The election represents the first major change of leadership since the organization’s inception in 1987.
Richard J. Hoffberger, who has served as President since 1987, announced in May that he would not seek reelection.
Meyer, who has owned horses since the early 1980’s, has been a Board member since 1989. As Chairman of the Health and Welfare Committee, Mr. Meyer has pioneered numerous programs that have improved the quality of life on the backstretch. These efforts have included the creation and sustainability of the MTHA’s Backstretch Pension Plan, Health Center, Free Health Fairs, and year-round Recreation Program among other initiatives.
Mr. Meyer also is a member of the Maryland State Fair Board and is the current President of the
Maryland Horsemen’s Assistance Fund, a charitable group that provides financial assistance to eligible employees actively working at Maryland racetracks and/or thoroughbred farms.
A career employee of the Defense Department, Meyer is a 1981 graduate of the National Defense University. He graduated from St. Louis University, and earned a Master’s Degree in technology and management from Central Michigan University.
Mr. Hoffberger will remain on the Board and continue to work on legislative issues. He will also continue his efforts on the MTHA’s Negotiating Committee which is currently working on future racing dates and other matters relating to a long term racing program with the Maryland Jockey Club.
Also, after 37 years of service, the Association’s Executive Secretary, Wayne W. Wright made official his retirement. The Board appointed David Richardson, who has served the Board as Administrative Assistant since July 2011 as Mr. Wright’s successor.
(From the Oct 2012 MTHA Newsletter)
