NTRA Focuses on Modernizing Horse Racing Through Safety, Integrity, and Fan Engagement

NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney discusses the association's efforts to advance the sport through technology, regulation, and attracting new generations of fans.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In this episode of "The Tack Room" podcast, NTRA President and CEO Tom Rooney joins host Kayla Pragid and Holland & Knight attorney William Shepherd to discuss the NTRA's work in modernizing the horse racing industry. Rooney, who has a family history in the sport, highlights the NTRA's focus on enhancing safety standards, promoting integrity, and expanding the sport's appeal to younger audiences through digital engagement and new betting options.

Why it matters

As one of the oldest professional sports in the U.S., horse racing faces the challenge of adapting to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements while maintaining its rich tradition. The NTRA's efforts to improve safety, integrity, and fan engagement are crucial to ensuring the long-term viability and growth of the industry.

The details

Rooney discusses the NTRA's role in advocating for legislative initiatives like the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act, which aims to establish uniform safety and medication standards across the sport. He also highlights the association's use of technology, such as biometrics in jockey saddles and real-time monitoring of horse health, to enhance the safety and fairness of races. Additionally, Rooney addresses the NTRA's focus on attracting younger fans through digital platforms, social media influencer partnerships, and exploring fixed-odds betting options to better integrate horse racing into the broader sports betting landscape.

  • Rooney assumed leadership of the NTRA in the early 2020s.
  • The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act was recently enacted, leading to a decline in horse fatalities.
  • The NTRA is currently exploring ways to integrate horse racing betting into mainstream sports betting apps and platforms.

The players

National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA)

The largest advocacy group and trade association for the horse racing industry in the United States, representing major racetracks, the Breeders' Cup, the Jockey Club, and other key stakeholders.

Tom Rooney

The president and CEO of the NTRA, who brings a unique blend of political experience, legal expertise, and a lifelong passion for horse racing to the organization.

Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA)

The regulatory body established by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act to oversee safety and medication standards in the sport.

Lisa Lazarus

The CEO of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, who has led efforts to improve safety and integrity in the sport.

Light Up Racing

A group that responds to negative perceptions about horse racing on social media and educates the public about the sport's practices and regulations.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The NTRA is currently working to integrate horse racing betting into mainstream sports betting platforms, which could involve exploring fixed-odds betting options to better compete with other sports.

The takeaway

The NTRA's efforts to modernize horse racing through enhanced safety, integrity, and fan engagement initiatives are crucial to ensuring the long-term viability and growth of the sport in an evolving landscape. By embracing technology, regulation, and new approaches to fan engagement, the NTRA is working to secure the future of one of America's oldest and most storied professional sports.