Kentucky politicians, business and community leaders react to Ted Bassett’s death
Several Kentucky politicians and business leaders expressed condolences Friday at the news of James E. “Ted” Bassett’s III death.
Bassett, 103, died Thursday at his home in Lexington. He was known internationally as an ambassador for Kentucky and horse racing, having served as chairman of the Keeneland from 1986 to 2001. Before that, he served as the Lexington racetrack and sales association’s president for 16 years.
Keeneland announced Bassett’s death Friday. President and CEO Shannon Arvin said Bassett was a cherished member of the Keeneland family.
“He was the embodiment of class and integrity, and his commitment to preserving Keeneland’s mission and brand, often during challenging times in history, enabled our racing and sales operations to soar to new heights and set the standard for the industry,” Arvin said in a statement.
Bassett also served as Breeders’ Cup Limited President from 1988 to 1996. He was on the organization’s board of directors and board of members and trustees.
Breeders’ Cup President and CEO Drew Fleming said Bassett served the horse racing industry with “magnificent honor and distinction, and his legacy will continue to make an impact for generations to come.”
“Our thoughts are with the many people whose lives he touched as we honor his memory,” Fleming said in a statement.
Chauncey Morris with the Kentucky Thoroughbred Associationsaid Bassett’s legacy was “unequaled. magnanimous. marine.”
“These words are the very definition of Ted Bassett, his service to the United States, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and its world-class Thoroughbred industry,” Morris said in a post on X. “His leadership of Keeneland was transformational. Our deepest condolences to his family.”
Kentucky State Police, where Bassett was director from 1963-1967, said Bassett made many contributions to Kentucky, including establishing Trooper Island Camp Inc., a youth program where children and troopers can share a weeklong experience. Bassett is also credited with eliminating political promotions, doubling starting salaries, adding retirement benefits and expanding training with the state police academy.
“Ted Bassett’s life was exceptional service to our nation and the community he cared for so deeply,” KSP said in a statement. “We are profoundly grateful for our time together and for his leadership, vision, and the incredible mark he left on all of us.”
Anne Donworth, the state representative for the 76th District and Bassett’s niece, said Kentucky lost a legend with her uncle’s death.
“I lost a role model and mentor, but I will carry his many lessons with me forever. Thank you, Uncle Teddy,” Donworth said in a Facebook post.
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said the city lost a legend after learning of Bassett’s death, highlighting his long list of accomplishments throughout his life.
“Please join me in keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers,” Gorton said in a Facebook post.
Todd Schrupp, an anchor and horse racing host with FanDuel TV, said Bassett, “defined what it means to lead a ‘purpose-driven’ life.
“I was always in awe when in his presence, and I’m grateful to have met him,” Schrupp said on X.
Bill Straus, who captured the photo of Bassett escorting actress Elizabeth Taylor around Keeneland, said Bassett was an unabashed cheerleader for horse racing and Lexington who will be missed.
“He was a remarkable and accomplished individual known internationally,” Straus said in a Facebook post. “It was truly an honor and blessing to know him.”
This is a developing story and will be updated.
This story was originally published January 24, 2025 at 12:35 PM.
