Jill Byrne has been named the Executive Director of the Virginia Thoroughbred Association (VTA), while Debbie Easter will focus on industry initiatives with the Virginia Equine Alliance (VEA). Byrne, a Virginia native, has extensive experience in the industry and will continue to serve as Vice-President of Marketing & Strategic Planning for the VEA.
Byrne’s new role with the VTA will allow her to represent Virginia horsemen and women as the state’s racing and breeding programs continue to grow. Easter expressed confidence in Byrne’s marketing knowledge and passion for the industry, allowing her to enhance her role as President of the VEA. Turner Kobayashi, VTA President, praised both Byrne and Easter for their leadership in Virginia racing.
The VTA, established in 1941, has been instrumental in implementing successful bonus programs like the Virginia Breeders Fund and the Certified Residency program. The Certified Residency program, started in 2017, has had a significant economic impact on the state, supporting jobs and keeping the industry vibrant. The VEA, a non-profit organization, works to sustain, promote, and expand the horse breeding and racing industries in Virginia.
