The Racing Medication & Testing Consortium (RMTC) announced today that Dr. Michael Hardy is its next Executive Director. He will manage the Laboratory Accreditation and External Quality Assurance Program in conjunction with the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit. He will also be in charge of administering the RMTC’s Scientific Advisory Committee process, monitoring the emerging threats to the integrity of racing, overseeing RMTC-funded research projects, and coordinating RegVet CE programs. Dr. Hardy will lead the efforts to educate thoroughbred racing participants about significant changes to anti-doping and medication control regulations. These changes will begin on January 1, 2023, with the new Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority ADMC program.
The RMTC selected Dr. Hardy based on his experience in developing regulatory safety initiatives for racehorses, management of pre- and post-race drug testing, research into emerging threats to the integrity of horse racing, and the regulation of horse racing in general.
“We are very pleased to have Dr. Hardy on board,” said RMTC Chair Alex Waldrop. “He has been working with the RMTC for years now. That will enable him to hit the ground running in this new capacity, at a pivotal time for the RMTC and the entire horse racing industry.”
Hardy also continues in his position as Chief Association Veterinarian, and newly appointed Safety Director for Horseshoe Indianapolis. He is also a member of the Breeders’ Cup Veterinary Panel.
Dr. Hardy started his career as a racing regulatory veterinarian in 2008. He first worked for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. Since 2013, he has worked for Horseshoe Indianapolis (previously Indiana Grand Racing & Casino).
Hardy has served on the RMTC Horseracing Testing Laboratory Committee (HTLC) since 2019. In this role, he has assisted in the implementation of the Laboratory Accreditation Program. The HTLC serves as a consultant to the RMTC Board and Executive Committee on matters related to the Laboratory Accreditation Program and RMTC-accredited laboratories.
In addition, he has also presented at various veterinary and industry-related conferences, including RMTC’s RegVet CE. Topics have included pre-race examinations, injury prevention, emergency response, race-day injury management, and horse racing testing laboratory accreditation.
About RMTC
The RMTC is a 501(c) 3 organization comprised of 23 industry stakeholder organizations with a shared commitment to engage in research, education, and advocacy for science-based initiatives that promote the health and safety of the racehorse and the integrity of competition. More information can be found at rmtcnet.com.
