The Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) has presented one of its most prestigious awards, the William H. May Award for Distinguished Service Award to the American Greyhound Council, Inc.

The award was presented at the RCI’s semi-annual conference at Jackson Hole, Wy., in late April. Accepting the award on behalf of the AGC and the industry was Ron Sultemeier, former member of the AGC and former president of the American Greyhound Track Operators Association.

Making the presentation on behalf of RCI was Kip Keefer, executive director of the Birmingham Racing Commission. Keefer’s remarks about the Council, preceding the presentation, were as follows:

“It is a great honor for me to be asked to announce the winner of the prestigious May Award, which is presented each year. This year’s recipient is an organization that has authored one of the racing industry’s greatest success stories.

“In 1987, AGTOA—made up of representatives from the racetracks—and the National Greyhound Association—comprised of owners, breeders and kennel operators—teamed up to form the American Greyhound Council. Their collective mission was to ensure the welfare of racing Greyhounds—not just at the racetrack during their careers, but also at the farm level during the developmental period, and perhaps most importantly, after their racing days were over, as retiring Greyhounds.

“As important as this undertaking was, there were many on both sides that did not believe cooperation was possible. However, many dedicated, committed individuals on both sides pressed on, understanding that the sport absolutely had to initiate this collaborative effort to survive and move forward.

“The results in the 20 years since have been astounding. Working closely with and helping fund Greyhound Pets of America and other responsible adoption groups, the AGC dramatically began to make a difference. The work will not be completed until every retired racer is placed in a home, but I am proud to stand before you tonight and let know, the success rate is considerable. Through the efforts of AGC and these dedicated men and women who work tirelessly for Greyhound placement the current rate of Greyhound adoption is better than 90 percent.

“For the extraordinary efforts of these individuals who make up the AGC and for the tremendous example they have sent to the rest of the racing industry, that cooperation between various factions can lead to significant accomplishment, the ARCI is pleased to announce that the prestigious May Award will be presented for 2007 to the American Greyhound Council.”

The award was made possible largely through the efforts of Dan Hartman, director of Colorado Division of Racing Events. Hartman was also honored at the conference, being awarded the RCI’s Len Foote Award for 2007.

RCI, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., is the solely recognized national association representing racing commissions in racing jurisdictions throughout North America.