The CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency says there are parallels between issues facing the U.S. horse industry and the Olympics when it comes to ensuring the integrity of those sports, specifically with regard to oversight on medications.

Travis Tygart, CEO of United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), was in Lexington, Ky., April 14 to speak to a group of about 50 horse industry stakeholders brought together for an informational meeting organized by the Water Hay Oats Alliance (WHOA). Member of WHOA are seeking to stop race-day medication. Among those present for Tygart's presentation were a diverse group of equine industry professionals, including farm owners, breeders, owners, stable managers, equine insurance professionals, regulators, and trainers.

The USADA has been designated in legislation introduced in Congress with responsibility of having oversight on drug issues. The bill is "The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act" (HR 2012/S 973). The USADA, a private, nonprofit company, is most notably known for its work in compiling the report on the doping activities of cyclist Lance Armstrong and his teammates in its role as the anti-doping organization for Olympic sports.

Tygart said his company agreed when asked by Congress to be included for consideration as the drug oversight body for any federal legislation regulating horse racing