A central Kentucky equine veterinarian says Anita Madden’s interest, passion, and knowledge of the horse industry was impactful. She died last week at the age of 85.
Bourbon County veterinarian Robert Copelan says he worked with Madden on a racing medication rule that last 36 years. “She was so industrious as to learn everything she could about why horses were medicated and with what medications that were given. She studied that as no other racing commission with whom I had that much familiarity ever took,” said Madden.
Madden served on the state racing commission during the early 1980’s. Copelan says he knew the Madden family for 65 years. He says Madden’s Derby Eve parties showed one side of her. “She was so well known for being the star hostess for those wonderful parties that they had and the side that she showed to us through her position on the racing commission, I always thought she could have run General Motors,” noted Copelan.
Family and friends of the Lexington horsewoman, socialite, and philanthropist will participate in visitation Wednesday. It will be held from 2:00 until 6:00 at Milward Funeral Home on Trent Boulevard.
