Newswise — Robert L. Losey, a leading horse-industry economist and consultant, is available to speak to the media about the economic and financial aspects of thoroughbred horse racing during the period leading up to the Preakness (Saturday, May 17) and the Belmont Stakes (Saturday, June 7).

Losey, chair of the finance and real estate department at American University's Kogod School of Business, has researched and written extensively about the Thoroughbred horse industry. He has published articles and has given speeches about numerous aspects of Thoroughbred horse racing, especially the finances and economics of horse racing and breeding, including the valuation of racing prospects and breeding stock and functioning of the auction markets on which most Thoroughbreds are sold.

In addition to his academic interest in horse racing, Losey, who holds a doctorate in economics from the University of Kentucky, has bred and raced horses since 1972, and is a student of breeding theories and handicapping. The best-performing horse he bred was El Gran Papa, a stakes winner of more than $500,000. Losey bred El Gran Papa from a mare that he bought for himself and two colleagues for $16,000.

American University's Kogod School of Business (kogod.american.edu) is the school of choice for interdisciplinary business education in the Washington, D.C., area. Established in 1955, Kogod has a highly diverse population of students who are motivated to make a difference in the world. The school works closely with the business community to create market-driven programs that produce outstanding candidates prepared for productive careers in the global business environment.