James L. Gagliano has been elected to the American Horse Council (AHC) Board of Trustees. Gagliano has been the president and chief operating officer of The Jockey Club, the breed registry for all Thoroughbred horses in North America, since January 1, 2010. He had been the executive vice president and chief administrative officer of that organization for five years before that.

"The Jockey Club was a founding member of the American Horse Council when it was organized in 1969 and we have been an enthusiastic supporter and member ever since," said Gagliano. "I have a great appreciation for the need for an organization such as the AHC. In addition to promoting and protecting the equine industry by representing its interests in Congress and before federal regulatory agencies on national issues of importance, the horse council is an invaluable resource to the industry itself. I look forward to helping in all these efforts."

AHC president Jay Hickey added, "The AHC is very pleased that Jim Gagliano has agreed to serve on the board. He has been involved in racing for many years and active in the legislative process, including testifying before the Senate Commerce Committee on the Interstate Horseracing Improvement Act. He has industry and Washington experience."

Prior to joining The Jockey Club’s management team, Gagliano served as executive vice president of Magna Entertainment Corporation’s (MEC) Maryland racing operations, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Maryland Jockey Club. He also served as president of MEC off-track betting, and group vice president for MEC Northern Group. Before that, Gagliano served as executive vice president and general manager of Greenwood Racing Inc. and worked in various roles during a 10-year stint with the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority