Blanton named Keeneland's communications director

Keeneland President Nick Nicholson announced Wednesday that Jay Blanton has

been named Keeneland's director of communications and marketing. Blanton, 41, is

currently communications director for Gov. Steve Beshear. In that capacity,

Blanton oversees media relations, speechwriting and scheduling and serves as a

member of the Governor's senior staff.

"Jay is a highly respected communications professional and we are excited he

is joining our team at both a pivotal and challenging moment for our industry,"

Nicholson said. "The idea of communicating a message and supporting a brand and

its values has never been more important. In today's marketplace, articulating a

clear, resonant message is a complex and profoundly important undertaking. Jay

will be joining a talented team of individuals as Keeneland seeks to continue

and expand its role as a leader in all aspects of the Thoroughbred industry."

Before joining the Beshear administration, Blanton was executive director for

public relations and marketing for the University of Kentucky. For nearly four

years, Blanton oversaw media relations for the university and A.B. Chandler

Hospital. In addition, he helped lead the development and implementation of UK's

award-winning branding campaign -- "See Blue."

During a nearly 20-year communications career, Blanton has represented

several corporate clients for Kentucky's two largest public relations firms and

written for several newspapers and the Associated Press.

"Keeneland is an iconic brand that is fundamentally important to both the

Commonwealth and our signature industry," Blanton said. "I'm honored to join

such an outstanding team as we endeavor to enhance the Keeneland brand and

protect an industry that is so important to Kentucky."

Blanton will begin his new role in early November. At Keeneland, he will

oversee the company's communications and marketing strategy, including media

relations, advertising and marketing, community relations and consumer and

industry outreach. Blanton will succeed Jim Williams, Keeneland's long-time

communications director, who in August announced plans to retire at the end of

2009 after a 38-year career.