Title:  Starter

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for the safe, fair, and timely start of all races by overseeing starting gate operations and ensuring all horses are properly aligned and loaded in accordance with racing regulations. This is a seasonal position for the March race meet at Colonial Downs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directs and controls the starting of all races to ensure a fair and safe break for all horses.
• Supervises Assistant Starters and starting gate personnel during training and live race days.
• Ensures the starting gate is properly positioned, aligned, and functioning prior to each race.
• Determines when all horses are properly loaded and authorizes the start of the race.
• Works closely with outriders, jockeys, trainers, veterinarians, and racing officials to address loading issues or horse behavior concerns.
• Exercises authority to delay or scratch a horse from the race if safety or regulatory concerns arise, in coordination with racing officials.
• Monitors horse behavior at the gate and takes corrective action to minimize risk to horses, jockeys, and staff.
• Maintains logs and records related to gate activity, delays, or incidents.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable racing regulations, Company policies, and safety standards.
• Resolves issues within the scope of authority and escalates matters beyond that scope to racing officials or supervisors.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Extensive knowledge of Thoroughbred horse behavior and starting gate procedures.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to direct and manage a team in high-pressure situations.
• Ability to make quick, sound decisions focused on safety and fairness.
• Excellent verbal communication and situational awareness skills.
• Ability to remain calm and composed while working with anxious or difficult horses.
• Strong understanding of racing regulations and integrity standards.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of three to five years of experience in starting gate operations or similar Thoroughbred racing roles required.
• Previous experience as an Assistant Starter strongly preferred.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Racing Commission racing license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• The Team Member will be required to stand and walk for the duration of the shift.
• While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, reach, handle, or feel objects, equipment, or animals; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
• The Team Member may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• The Team Member works in close proximity to racehorses and inside a tight, confined metal structure (starting gate) in a fast-paced environment.
• The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, holidays, and all live race days.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, noise, animals, weather conditions, and other environmental factors associated with live racing and training operations.

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.