The board of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association announced Aug. 3 the selection of Anne Litz as its next executive director. In October Litz will begin working with Cricket Goodall as her assistant, with the plan to succeed the longtime executive director in July 2027.
A lifelong member of Maryland's Thoroughbred community, Litz brings more than two decades of experience spanning Thoroughbred breeding, sales, communications, government relations, strategic planning, and industry leadership.
As executive director of the Maryland Horse Industry Board, under the Maryland Department of Agriculture, she has led statewide initiatives to strengthen Maryland's $2.9 billion horse industry through economic development, legislative engagement and industry collaboration. Most recently she has also co-spearheaded Maryland's first statewide Horse Industry Strategic Plan with the Maryland Racing Commission, bringing together leaders from every sector of the horse industry around a shared vision for the future.
Litz said she is grateful to have the opportunity to return to an organization that helped shape her career.
"I am deeply honored and humbled to be chosen as the next executive director of the Maryland Horse Breeders Association. The MHBA has been part of my family and my life, since I was raised in Maryland's Thoroughbred breeding industry," Litz said. "Cricket has led this organization with passion, vision, and dedication, and throughout my career she has also been a trusted mentor, role model, and friend. I cannot imagine a greater privilege than building on the foundation that she has built."
"The board is delighted that Anne Litz accepted the executive director position to replace Cricket Goodall. Maryland racing is at an exciting place with new track ownership, a new Pimlico facility, and a new training center. Anne's experience in the horse industry and knowledge of all the components will be an important asset in leading the MHBA," confirmed Richie Blue, MHBA president.
Founded in 1929, the Maryland Horse Breeders Association serves as the leading advocate and resource for Maryland's Thoroughbred breeding industry while supporting breeders, administering the Maryland-Bred Race Fund and publishing Mid-Atlantic Thoroughbred and Maryland Horse Weekly.
