Gabbert Leaves Keeneland to 'Pursue Other Endeavors'

Racetrack executive Vince Gabbert has resigned from his position as vice president of strategic initiatives and legislative affairs at Keeneland to develop a newly awarded professional soccer franchise in Lexington.

Gabbert's departure, first reported by Thoroughbred Daily News, was confirmed by Keeneland in a statement June 20.

"Vince Gabbert has left Keeneland to pursue other endeavors. During his 14 years at Keeneland, Vince played an important role in numerous strategic initiatives and legislative efforts to further strengthen Kentucky racing. We thank Vince for his many contributions for the betterment of Keeneland and the Thoroughbred industry."

Gabbert began at Keeneland in 2009 as vice president and chief operating officer. Last fall, William Shivley's Town Hill Sports and United Soccer League president Jake Edwards announced the new soccer franchise for Lexington. Town Hill Sports is the franchise's majority owner and Gabbert is its president. Shively also is a Thoroughbred owner/breeder, who owns Dixiana Farms north of Lexington.

The new USL League One soccer team will begin playing in the spring of 2023.

Previous to his employment with Keeneland, Gabbert worked as deputy chief of staff to the governor and a regional director of public finance for Ross, Sinclaire & Associates. He received a bachelor's degree in political science and government from the University of Louisville in 1998 and attended its Louis D. Brandeis School of Law from 1998-2001.