Governor Matt Bevin appointed Barren County native Marc A. Guilfoil as executive director of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) Secretary David Dickerson announced today.

Guilfoil has served in a number of roles at the KHRC since 1988, most recently as director of racing.

“Marc brings a unique perspective to this position and I am very excited he will have oversight of this very important organization,” said Gov. Bevin. “Kentucky’s horse industry is one of the keys to the Commonwealth’s growing economy and Marc’s ability to relate to all facets of the industry is critical in its continued success.”

Guilfoil has also served as deputy executive director for KHRC as well as liaison between the commission and the Kentucky General Assembly, the eight racing associations, and the respective horsemen’s organizations.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for me personally and I look forward to working with all of our constituent groups to find solutions to the issues that face horse racing in Kentucky today,” said Guilfoil.

As a 1987 graduate of the University of Kentucky, Guilfoil received his B.S. in Agriculture with an emphasis in Communications. Guilfoil is also a certified Thoroughbred, Standardbred, and Quarter horse steward with the University of Louisville Judges Accreditation Program and the United States Trotting Association Officials School.

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) is an independent agency of state government charged with the responsibility of regulating the conduct of horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing and related activities within the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

(with files from KHRC)