Thoroughbred Owners of California appoint Filkins to board

The board of directors of the Thoroughbred Owners of California unanimously voted to appoint owner Darren Filkins, CEO of Harris Farms, to fill a vacancy on the board created by the recent death of John Harris.

Filkins was born and raised in Bakersfield, Calif. His family owned a small farm, and from an early age he enjoyed being involved with livestock and participating in a local 4H and Future Farmers of America groups. His father, a longtime veterinarian in Bakersfield, served most of the equine population there, including Thoroughbreds. Darren studied agribusiness at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, where he also played football.

“I’d previously worked with Darren through some difficult issues and was impressed by his intelligence, forthrightness and integrity,” said TOC board member Ty Green, chairman of the Northern California racing affairs subcommittee. “Harris Farms has been a big part of the history of California racing over the past decades, and with the passing of Mr. Harris, asking Darren to continue the Harris industry legacy by serving on the TOC Board in his place seemed natural and in the best interest of racing. We are very happy he agreed to join us.”

After graduation, Filkins started work in sales and marketing, eventually moving into management. He worked for Bolthouse Farms and Agricultural Capital Operations before moving to Harris Farms, where he has been CEO since January 2022.

TOC is the official organization serving new, veteran and future Thoroughbred owners in California. It represents, advances and protects owners’ interests and rights in legislative, administrative and business matters.