MI Developments Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Frank Stronach announced today that the former Breeders’ Cup Limited President and CEO Greg Avioli, who after a successful five-year stint as its head, has signed an employment agreement as president and CEO of the racing and gaming division of MID
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In announcing the appointment, Stronach called on the thoroughbred racing industry to work collaboratively, saying that, “One of our main goals is to collaborate with other racing industry stakeholders – tracks, breeders, horsemen and regulators — to create and grow new business opportunities and revenue streams.”
Stronach further said that MID is committed to providing the best racing, gaming and entertainment experience to its customers while working with its partners to enhance thoroughbred racing and wagering. This commitment is reflected in the appointment of Avioli, a proven seasoned sports industry veteran with more than 10 years experience in the thoroughbred industry. Avioli said, “I look forward to implementing Frank Stronach’s vision. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with one of the great leaders of our industry, Frank Stronach.”
Prior to joining the Breeders’ Cup, Avioli, an attorney, served as deputy commissioner of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, where he led horse racing’s federal legislative and lobbying efforts, and was the primary architect of the federal gaming laws authorizing internet wagering on horse racing. Prior to his involvement in horse racing, he was the senior vice president of business affairs for Atlanta-based International Sports and Entertainment Strategies, where he developed domestic and international properties with the PGA Tour, United States Tennis Association and the United States Olympic Committee.
(MID)