2025 Candidate Statements

KAREN BENSON
Dear Mass breeders BOD’S and members
I enjoy my time as a Mass breeder BOD. I have owned, raced and bred Massbred race horses since 1984. My family and I own and run a full care facility in Saugus MA that includes Mare and foal management and rehoming of retired race horses. My daughter Paige manages the day-to-day operations since the passing of her father, my Husband Michael Benson who was the VP of the HBPA in 2008, It is a very rewarding time for us seeing Massbreds being born at out farm to grow and go on to race and win purses. I am committed to see Breeding and Racing continue in the state of Massachusetts. We have had many ups and downs and still continue to face many challenges of Breeding and Racing survival.
But I feel if we stand together and keep collaborating to ensure Massbred breeding and Racing continues in Massachusetts we will endure this special kind of sport that will continue to keep Agriculture intact. So, with that being said I have witnessed all the hard work of our Horsemen and woman who have contributed and sacrificed to maintain the gaming bill continues to still work successfully for us. I look positively to our future with a new Racetrack for Massachusetts.
I’m here again to ask for consideration to be voted in to continue to serve as a Massbred BOD as I have as BOD for the past several years as I have
Best regards
Karen Benson
Owner Indian Rock Stables Saugus MA 01906

NOGAH BUST
Hi Mass Thoroughbred Members
My name is Nogah Bust and I grew up on a dairy farm, where I was responsible for the care of goats and cows and helping my family make cheese. That early experience instilled a deep love for farming and animal care.
In 2021, My husband and I purchased a 50-acre farm [Manny Roos] in Plainville, Massachusetts, with a 24-stall barn that sparked our journey into horses what began with renting stalls quickly grew into a passion for broodmares and foals. By 2023 I was managing 12 broodmares on my farm, foaling and raising them with my husband’s help.
After meeting with the Massachusetts Thoroughbred Association in 2024 I expanded into thoroughbred breeding, acquiring my first five broodmares and taking the leap to stand a stallion for the first time. I successfully completed my first year of live cover breeding and continue to grow my stable.
I have poured countless hours into our farm, balancing family life with my passion for breeding. I’m committed to supporting and strengthening thoroughbred breeding in Massachusetts and believe that, with hard work and perseverance the industry can thrive again.
I would appreciate a vote from you for the upcoming election.
Thank you
Nogah Bust

ARMAND JANJIGIAN
I’ve been in the horse business most of my life. Been breeding and racing for over fifty [50] years. Have also been on the MTBA Board for many of those years as well. Am interested in
Getting re-elected to the board as I feel I can be of some advantage as we go forward. I would like you to consider me for re-election.
Thank you
Armand Janjigian 

ROBERT MANNING
My name is Robert [Bob] Manning and would like to get your vote in the upcoming 2025 Massachusetts Thoroughbred Election.
Having grown up in the racing industry, I have seen and been involved in all aspects of the racing business. I have been a trainer and/or owner going back to the 70s. I have been breeding thoroughbreds here In Massachusetts throughout as well.
I am presently a retired trainer, but am still a Breeder and owner of Thoroughbreds. It would be great to see our Mass-bred program to continue. I am available to advocate and help lobby for our program.
We have seen many changes over the years in the industry and I would like to continue to be more involved in the ongoing plans for our breeding program.
Please consider giving me your vote
Bob Manning

PAUL UMBRELLO
I am up again for re-election on the Mass Breeders board and wanted to give those no familiar with me a little background.
I hold a degree from Northeastern University and have strong business and financial background that is instrumental in being part as a board member.
I am also the owner and managing partner of a long-term racing and breeding stable which includes Mass Breds
This past term I have actively worked to make a push to get some of our much-needed legislative language passed that improves our breeding program. I was instrumental in working with our finance staff to improve our financial position.
You need someone on the board who is creative and thinks outside the box; someone who can improve and build our breeders program along with preserving our funding.
We need to improve our marketing programs and materials. Increase the interest of both the investor and fan base. As a board member, I want to be an advocate that helps and supports all those that are part of the best breeder’s program in the country.
A successful board is one that can work together and make a difference in what we set out to accomplish. You need board members that will lead and work hard for its members and who take leadership and are not afraid to be vocal.
I would appreciate your support and a vote come this 2025 election
Thank You
Paul Umbrello