What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Starter position at JACK Thistledown Racino?
Position Description:
The Assistant Starter works together with others as a team to ensure the proper loading and positioning of Thoroughbred race horses into the starting gate in accordance with Ohio Racing Rules to ensure a fair and neutral start for each race. This person also assists with schooling Thoroughbred race horses to acclimate to the starting gate to ensure each horse is properly trained prior to the start of the race thus ensuring the safety of the horse, jockey and everyone involved. This position takes direction from the Starter and must learn the proper techniques of handling and loading a horse as well as using applicable tools of the trade.
Responsible for the following:
- Schooling horses in the morning
- Set-up gate for the start of each race and ensure the best start possible
- Teach and familiarize young horses with the gate to break and school horses on the starter’s list
- Set gate on track and place numbers on gate
- Rake tire tracks before and after the race
- Follow proper procedures for getting gate on and off track for each race
- Move starting stands to each starting distance
- Make equipment changes on the horse
- Load and handle horses for each race
- Assist in loading horses that pull up during and after the race
Job Requirements:
- Must be able to work closely and comfortably around racehorses
- Must possess high school diploma or equivalent
- Must be able to obtain an Ohio Racing License
- Previous starting gate experience is preferred
- Knowledge of related OHIO Racing Rules
- Previous experience riding or handling horses
- Maintains interpersonal working relationships among personnel and the public
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Must at all times wear appropriate personal protective equipment
- Must be hard working and motivated
- Ability to work in a team environment
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Must be 21 years of age.
- Must be able to obtain a License from the Ohio State Racing Commission
- Must be able to work quickly and efficiently in tight spaces
- Must possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Must have strong organizational skills
- Must be team-oriented
- Must be able to work successfully with a variety of personality styles
- Must be able to perform various functions essential to racing operations
Education and Experience:
- High School Diploma/GED or related work experience preferred.
- Must have basic knowledge of applicable Ohio Revised Code and Administrative Rules outlined in Chapter 3769
- Must have extensive experience working closely around racehorses
Required Certification/License:
- Must be able to obtain Ohio State Racing Commission License
Experience
Required- 2 year(s): Extensive experience working with and around racehorses
Education
Required- High School or better
Equal Opportunity Employer
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