Assistant Starter

Essential Job Functions:

• Primary responsibility is to ensure all participants have an equal opportunity to a fair start in the race
• Daily maintenance of the starting gate making sure the starting gate electrical/mechanical systems are in good working order, assuring the starting cord is plugged in and routed to the starter stand, repeating these activities as necessary
• During the running of the races, stay in constant two-way radio communications with the Stewards, Outriders, Paddock Judge, Track Maintenance and Track Veterinarian.
• Testing of the starting gate before the first race to make sure it is in proper working order and is subject to testing before each race.
• Shall be assigned to specific horses based on the order prescribed by the Stewards prior to the first race unless the Head Starter determines safety dictates a change.
• Assist in loading of the horses in a race, the type of equipment utilized to try to ensure a safe load and fair start lead shank, flipping halter, pads, blanket, etc.
• Raise their arms and hands in the air above their heads immediately after the opening of the starting gate.
• Assist with the schooling and gate works of horses during training hours.
• May drive starter gate truck and be expected to maintain the starter gate truck and starter gate are in/remain in good working order.
• Provides daily assistance to the Starter for operational needs.
• Set numbers on top of the starting gate, making sure that the number on the stall matches the number assigned to the horse being loaded into the gate.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

 Education:

• Completion of high school diploma or GED

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Previous skills handling horses preferably in a racing environment.
• Must have good balance and excellent reflexes
• Ability to handle horses weighing in excess of 900 pounds.
• Operational knowledge of horse racing and starting gate knowledge
• Good balance and reflex skills • Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure.
• Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships. • Ability to understand and follow instructions
• Ability to work a flexible and irregular schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays

Training and Experience:

• 3-6 months of experience with horses and/or horse racing track experience is required
• Starting Gate experience on horse racing track preferred. Licenses/Certifications/Other:
• Must be able to pass a background check and receive a license or permit from any Regulatory Agency if applicable to perform the essential job functions
• Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug test with a negative result
• Ability to obtain a valid driver’s license