OwnerView announced Thursday that social media influencer and content creator Griffin Johnson has been named the 2025 New Owner of the Year.
The award, sponsored by 1/ST RACING, recognizes Johnson’s significant contributions to Thoroughbred racing through his partnership with America’s Best Racing.
Johnson became a part-owner of Grade I Stakes winner Sandman (Tapit) with West Point Thoroughbreds and also shares ownership of TDN Rising Star, presented by Hagyard, Ewing (Knicks Go).
His impact on introducing racing to younger demographics has been substantial.
Johnson’s behind-the-scenes content featuring Sandman reached more than 200 million people across social platforms, generating over 35 million views. This engagement represents one of the most successful digital marketing campaigns in recent racing history.
The influencer has leveraged his substantial following to showcase the sport’s excitement and insider access typically unavailable to casual fans.
“I really love this horse & will be rooting for him,” Johnson shared in a recent social post featuring Journalism ahead of the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
A video feeding JOURNALISM this summer in honor of the Breeders Cup Classic running in one week.. I really love this horse & will be rooting for him🐎💨 pic.twitter.com/AAFopBuslG
— Griffin Johnson (@lmgriffjohnson)
A video feeding JOURNALISM this summer in honor of the Breeders Cup Classic running in one week.. I really love this horse & will be rooting for him🐎💨 pic.twitter.com/AAFopBuslG
— Griffin Johnson (@lmgriffjohnson) October 25, 2025
The award highlights racing’s growing strategy to embrace digital creators as ambassadors who can connect with audiences beyond traditional racing demographics.
Johnson’s selection marks a continued evolution in how the industry recognizes valuable contributions from non-traditional racing participants.
OwnerView, an educational resource developed by The Jockey Club and Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, presents the award annually to honor significant positive impact from new racing ownership.
