Title:  Horseman's Relations

JOB SUMMARY

The Horseman’s Relations team member serves as the primary liaison between the racetrack and horsemen, including owners, trainers, assistant trainers, grooms, and stable staff. This role is responsible for fostering positive working relationships, ensuring clear communication of racing policies and procedures, addressing concerns, and supporting the day-to-day operational needs of horsemen to promote a safe, fair, and efficient racing environment. This is a seasonal position for the March race meet at Colonial Downs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as the primary point of contact for horsemen regarding racing operations, policies, schedules, and facility matters
• Build and maintain positive, professional relationships with owners, trainers, and stable personnel
• Communicate race conditions, entries, scratches, post positions, purse information, and regulatory updates as needed
• Assist horsemen with access to barns, credentials, parking, dormitory housing, and other backstretch services
• Respond promptly and professionally to horsemen inquiries, concerns, or complaints and escalate issues as appropriate
• Coordinate with Racing Office, Track Operations, Security, Maintenance, and Veterinary staff to resolve operational issues
• Support compliance with state racing commission rules, safety protocols, and track policies
• Assist with stable area logistics, including stall assignments, barn moves, and backstretch access control
• Facilitate communication during live racing, training hours, and special racing events
• Attend race days, training hours, and backstretch activities as required, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Promote a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all racing participants
• Document and report significant issues, trends, or feedback to racing management
• Perform other duties as assigned to support racing operations and horsemen relations

#colonialdownsracetrack

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of Thoroughbred horse racing operations, terminology, and culture
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Professional judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or high-pressure situations
• Ability to resolve conflicts calmly and diplomatically
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with multiple departments
• Comfort working in fast-paced, outdoor, and stable-area environments
• Proficiency with basic office technology (email, scheduling systems, racing software preferred)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum of 2–5 years of experience in Thoroughbred racing operations, horsemen services, or backstretch management preferred
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Prior experience working directly with owners, trainers, or racing officials strongly preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods in barn and track environments
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to climb stairs, navigate stable areas, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds
• Exposure to horses, equipment, and typical backstretch conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.