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Mr. Clay Entertains as Honor Guest of TCA Dinner
11/16/2009
Mr. Clay makes a point during his speech More than 200 dignitaries from around the racing world, family members and friends gathered at Keeneland on November 15 to celebrate as Runnymede owner Catesby W. Clay was feted with a testimonial dinner as the Thoroughbred Club of America’s 78th honor guest.
Greeted with several standing ovations, Mr. Clay accepted the recognition, which is one of the most prestigious awards in the sport, with a firmly positive resolve about the future of racing and breeding.
“Having seen the past, I have confidence in the future—and I believe our best days lie ahead,” said Mr. Clay, 86, who followed his stepfather, United States Senator Johnson N. Camden, in receiving the distinction. Senator Camden was honored in 1936.
Past honored guests of the Thoroughbred Club include many of the most successful and innovative men and women in the business, ranging from the first honoree, Col. E. R. Bradley in 1932, to Man o’ War’s owner Samuel D. Riddle to Lane’s End owner and former Ambassador to the Court of St. James William S. Farish. Others on the distinguished list include William Woodward Sr., Alfred G. Vanderbilt, Paul Mellon, John Gaines, W. T. Young Sr. and Alice Headley Chandler.
Mr. Clay and his wife, Biz, join with their
children in celebrating the occasion Mr. Clay acknowledged that current global economic trends are challenging, but he noted that Runnymede and other farms have not only survived such tests in previous times but have grown stronger—and will again.
“Just as Runnymede has endured over its 142 years, I have every confidence that our industry will regain its stride and re-emerge with resilience and strength,” he said to enthusiastic applause.
For the full text of Mr. Clay’s speech, click here.
For testimonials submitted by dignitaries from around the world in praise of Mr. Clay, click here.
For the Thoroughbred Times report on the testimonial dinner honoring Mr. Clay, click here.
(Photos by Garry Jones)
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