NTRA Statement on the Death of John Asher

“Over the past 20 years, no single person was more closely associated with the Kentucky Derby than John Asher. His knowledge of the Derby and his passion for its history and significance made him a popular speaker in Louisville, across the state of Kentucky and beyond. But his roots and passions ran much deeper. His alma mater, Western Kentucky University. Music. Literature. Family. He was an award winning journalist and a five-time Eclipse Award winner for outstanding radio coverage of Thoroughbred racing. He was a friend and mentor to many of us here at the NTRA and to so many others who came across his path. Our deepest sympathies to his wife Dee, his three beautiful daughters, his grandchildren who made him so proud and to the rest of his family and friends. All of us who were touched by his life will miss him deeply.”

Alex Waldrop

NTRA President and CEO