We would like to issue a response to Mr. Joe DeFrancis's letter which he has submitted to the TDN regarding statements he refers to as erroneous within our recent Op/Ed piece.
In his verbal testimony during the Congressional Horse Caucus, https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Zea9_kTQIfM, Mr. DeFrancis is on record as saying “I hope that because I have worn two very different hats over the course of my 35-year career in the horse racing industry I can offer you a unique perspective on this critically important legislation. My years as the CEO and controlling shareholder of the Maryland Jockey Club have made me acutely aware of the economic issues and business challenges that must be overcome for horse racing to be a viable industry and a successful business. I'm also proud to be currently working in an advisory role with the Humane Society of the United States on horse racing issues, and in establishing a national horse racing advisory council at HSUS.” Additionally a recent Blood-Horse article also references “DeFrancis, in his role as a consultant for the HSUS” http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/211180/horse-caucus-takes-testimony-on-drug-bill. Mr. DeFrancis' own words and the article reference led us to make an assumption that Mr. DeFrancis was being compensated for his efforts.
We apologize for not assuming that Mr. DeFrancis is providing his work for the HSUS pro bono.
Leroy Gessmann, President & Chairman of the National HBPA
Eric J. Hamelback, CEO National HBPA
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