RACING - STARTER ASSISTANT

SUMMARY

Responsible for schooling horses in the morning, set up gate for the start of each race and ensure the best start possible depending on what problems may occur.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Will teach and familiarize young horses with the gate to break and school horses on the starter’s list.  Will set gate on track.
2. Responsible for numbers on gate, rake tire tracks before and after the race, Proper procedures for getting gate on and off track each race, move starting stands to each starting distance.
3. Make equipment changes on the horse, load and handle horses for each race. 
4. Assist in loading horses that pull up during and after the race.

1. All other duties as assigned. 

REPORTING LINE

You will report directly to the Racing Starter then to the Manager of Racing.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Must have excellent communication skills, be polite, and present a neat appearance at all times. 
• Must have knowledge of thoroughbred racing.
• Must have previous experience in either riding or handling horses. 
• Previous starting gate experience is a plus.
• The ability to work with others as a team in an efficient manner. 
• You will need to be available to work all shifts. 
• The ability to work in a fast –paced environment.
• You must be at least 18 years old. 
• You also must be able to pass a background investigation and obtain and maintain a WV Racing License.

EDUCATIONAL AND/OR EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred but not necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

You will need to be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time. The ability to push, pull, kneel, twist, carry and lift up to 25 lbs.  

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Will be exposed to working in a noisy, smoke/secondary smoke environment and seasonal elements.