Job Description
Title: Racing Official Employee Status: Regular Full Time
Work From Home Option: Not Applicable
FLSA Status: Exempt
Job Overview The Racing Official will be assigned daily tasks by the Racing Secretary based on daily business needs. In the morning, the Racing Official will take entries for each race card by computer, phone or in person. In the afternoon, the Racing Official works on a team that is responsible for additional functions, such as Placing, Claims, Paddock, assisting Stakes Coordination, or the Clerk of Scales.
Essential Functions - The Racing Official will perform a variety of duties in the Racing Department. Among which include but are not limited to the following:
- Entry Clerk: Receive instructions detailing the number and types of races to occur in upcoming weeks. Use condition book and available technology to work and fill race card with appropriate horses. Communicate with trainers via phone or in person regarding entries. Proof overnight and program proof to ensure relevant stakeholders and public receives correct information.
- Placing: Stand directly above the finish line during live races and observe the race. Post the order of each race (first four horses) at the finish line on the tote board and entire order of horses as they finish. Post stewards’ inquiries on the result board and makes race official upon approval of the stewards. Communicate order and status of each race with other racing affiliates showing NYRA races via simulcast.
- Paddock: Supervises horses, riders, and all activity in the Paddock Area prior to each race. Makes sure all people in the paddock are authorized to be there. Inspects equipment of horses and riders in the paddock area at racetrack before each race to determine that equipment meets racing specifications and is equipped as described in the racing program. Examines horse’s equipment and rider’s attire to assure compliance with racing specifications. During the race, takes a position at one of various posts around the track to observe horses and riders as they pass the post. Notifies the stewards of any foul riding or improper equipment
- Jockey’s Room: Assist the Clerk of Scales in weighing jockeys prior to and after each race; Assist with scheduling and preparation for following day’s races.
- Claims: Verify accuracy of information and communicate between all parties (stewards, bookkeeper’s office, and Clerk of Scales) during the processing of claims during a claiming race.
- Stakes Coordinator: Assist the Stakes Coordinator by mailing stake books detailing upcoming race conditions to participants and monitoring the Stakes race calendar to provide support and attention to trainers/owners who may enter.
- Ad Hoc Projects at the Request of the Racing Secretary.
Qualifications - Education (minimum): College degree preferred, or equivalent experience.
- Experience as a Racing Official preferred but not required.
- Ability to work a racing schedule, including weekends and holidays and to be on site at all 3 racetracks: Aqueduct Racetrack,
- Belmont Park and Saratoga Racecourse. Ability to be licensed as a Racing Official in the state of New York.
- Good judgment and common sense;
- Knowledge of racing rules, protocol, and logistics;
- Familiarity with racetrack; i.e., conditions and measurements;
- Strong understanding of the various roles and responsibilities of all racing officials;
- Familiarity with racing terminology and conditions books;
- Strong attention to detail;
- Ability to work with a team and independently;
- Strong computer skills;
Summary Of Physical Requirements And Work Environment - This job requires working on site at all NYRA racetracks and working a racing schedule. In addition, some of the responsibilities will require the employee to work outside as well as in the placing stand which is often directly above the finish line in a high place.
Job Tags
Full time, Work at office, Work from home, Night shift, Day shift,