The Racing and Gaming Conference at Saratoga is expanding its leadership structure ahead of its 2026 event, announcing the formation of a new Advisory Committee comprised of prominent figures from the racing and gaming industries.
Organizers say the move is aimed at strengthening programming and broadening the conference’s long-term impact.
Advisory committee formed ahead of 2026 event
The sixth annual RGCS will take place Aug. 10-12, 2026, at the Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs, once again aligning with the summer Thoroughbred NY horse betting meet at Saratoga Race Course. The conference has become a regular gathering point for stakeholders in racing, gaming, and public policy.
The newly established Advisory Committee includes:
- Kim Copp: partner at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
- Josh Oppenheimer: shareholder at Greenberg Traurig
- Michele Fischer: vice president at SIS Ltd
- Chris Wittstruck: equine attorney for the Standardbred Owners Association of New York
- Brad Fischer: of counsel at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
According to RGCS leadership, the committee will help guide the direction of the 2026 conference and future events.
Committee to help shape programming and outreach
Members of the Advisory Committee will suggest panel topics, identify moderators and panelists, introduce speakers during conference sessions, and support fundraising initiatives. They will also promote the conference across professional and media networks.
Patrick Brown, RGCS co-executive director and conference founder, called the formation of the committee an important milestone for the event.
“The creation of this Advisory Committee marks an important step forward for RGCS,” Brown said in a statement. “These individuals bring deep expertise, diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to strengthening the dialogue around racing and gaming policy. Their guidance will help us deliver the most substantive and engaging program yet.”
Brown added that the committee builds on five years of growth while recognizing the conference’s origins at the Albany Law School Racing and Wagering Institute. He said the goal is to expand the conference’s influence for decades to come.
Registration now open for 2026 conference
Juliann Barreto, RGCS co-executive director and chief operating officer at Spectrum Gaming Group, emphasized the value of the new advisory group as the conference continues to grow.
“Their leadership and industry insight will be invaluable as we continue to grow RGCS and expand its reach across the racing and gaming community,” Barreto said.
Registration for the 2026 conference is now open, with early-bird rates available through July 9. Organizers also announced a group room block at the Saratoga Hilton and encouraged attendees to secure accommodations early as the event coincides with the popular Saratoga summer racing season.
