Barber Replaces Strauss on TOC Board

The board of directors of the Thoroughbred Owners of California has unanimously named Gary Barber to fill the board vacancy created by the recent resignation of Bill Strauss.

Barber was named National Owner of the Year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association two years in a row (2019-20), and his trademark hot pink silks are well known throughout the world, particularly in his home state of California. He has won more than 1,000 races, on his own and in partnership, and has enjoyed top-level success at the Breeders' Cup and in the Preakness Stakes (G1).

Barber said, "My passion for Thoroughbred racing is steadfast. I look forward to joining the board of the TOC and hope to make a meaningful contribution to the health and welfare of our sport and help attract a new generation of fans."

Barber, originally from South Africa, is the founding partner of Spyglass Entertainment, whose commercial hits generated over $5 billion at the worldwide box office, including such films as "Seabiscuit," "The Sixth Sense," and "Bruce Almighty." He currently serves as chairman and CEO of Spyglass Media Group.

Barber has campaigned numerous grade 1 winners and also is a breeder with interests in several stallions.

Strauss, a valued member of the TOC board since 2013, will continue his connection with California racing, according to TOC. Barber will be required to run in the 2023 board election when Strauss' term would have expired.