Peterson on ‘Making a Difference’ in Horse Racing List

University of Maine Professor of Mechanical Engineering Mick Peterson, who also is a cooperating professor of animal and veterinary sciences and co-founder of the Racing Surfaces Testing Laboratory in Orono, is listed by BloodHorse.com Thoroughbred horse-racing magazine as being among 12 influential people improving the Thoroughbred racing industry, but not often recognized for their contributions. Through his work analyzing track surfaces with a biometrical track-testing device, Peterson can assess factors affecting both track safety and performance. A profile of Peterson in the Feb. 16, 2013 edition of Blood Horse, notes that Peterson’s laboratory and track analysis equipment have become “an invaluable component in the industry’s wide-ranging efforts to improve the safety of its athletes.” Others on the list include philanthropists who have contributed to improving training and working conditions of “backstretch” employees behind the scenes, supported and strengthened horse farms and breeding programs, created safe havens for retired racehorses, and establishing a fund for permanently disabled jockeys.