Dana Suvanto

Top-class facilities require top-notch staff, and Knockgriffin Farm has one of the very best office administrators in Dana Suvanto.

After handling the accounting books for FitzGerald/Keogh Agency in 2000, Dana became Knockgriffin’s full-time “farm secretary.” However, this term barely scratches the surface of what she does on a daily basis for the farm and for Jim’s business.

Every aspect of the farm’s organization passes across Dana’s desk. She handles all the records for each horse and client, the billing, the accounts payable and receivable, the breeding schedules, foaling schedules, vet-sheets, shipping, payroll, entries, and on and on. Each day offers new tasks and tribulations, but she loves her job and simply is irreplaceable.

Dana’s father is the late Dr. E.W. Thomas of Lexington, a renowned veterinarian and owner/operator of High Point Farm. He also bred and raced in partnership OUR NATIVE, who finished third behind SECRETARIAT and SHAM in both the 1973 Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1). OUR NATIVE went on to even greater things as a stallion and broodmare sire. Dana worked under her father’s tutelage from 1978 to 2000, handling his daily business much like she does Knockgriffin’s.

Married to Dan Suvanto of 34 years, together they have two children, Danny, 31, and Kimberly, 28.

Business related emails may be directed to Dana: dana@knockgriffinfarm.com

Veterinary Staff

World-renowned Dr. Scott Pierce DVM, a full partner of Rood & Riddle since 1989, was the farm’s sole reproductive vet until 2003 when he decided to focus his practice on foals and yearlings. He remains Jim’s advisor for the young stock on the farm and at all sales.

Dr. Chris Newton DVM, a graduate from Auburn Vet School in 1997, now handles the reproductive work at Knockgriffin. He specializes in reproduction, primary and preventative care, equine sports medicine, physical therapy, and alternative medicine.