Horseman's Relations (Summer 2026)

Title: Horseman's Relations (Summer 2026)Requisition ID#: 3876Location:New Kent, VA, US, 23124Property: Colonial Downs & Rosie’s – New KentPay RangeColonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie’s Gaming Emporium, Rosie’s Game Room, and Virginia Horseplay. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.Job SummaryThe 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 summer race meet at Colonial Downs.Essential Duties And ResponsibilitiesAct as the primary point of contact for horsemen regarding racing operations, policies, schedules, and facility mattersBuild and maintain positive, professional relationships with owners, trainers, and stable personnelCommunicate race conditions, entries, scratches, post positions, purse information, and regulatory updates as neededAssist horsemen with access to barns, credentials, parking, dormitory housing, and other backstretch servicesRespond promptly and professionally to horsemen inquiries, concerns, or complaints and escalate issues as appropriateCoordinate with Racing Office, Track Operations, Security, Maintenance, and Veterinary staff to resolve operational issuesSupport compliance with state racing commission rules, safety protocols, and track policiesAssist with stable area logistics, including stall assignments, barn moves, and backstretch access controlFacilitate communication during live racing, training hours, and special racing eventsAttend race days, training hours, and backstretch activities as required, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidaysPromote a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all racing participantsDocument and report significant issues, trends, or feedback to racing managementPerform other duties as assigned to support racing operations and horsemen relations#colonialdownsracetrackRequired Skills And AbilitiesStrong knowledge of Thoroughbred horse racing operations, terminology, and cultureExcellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholdersProfessional judgment and discretion when handling sensitive or high-pressure situationsAbility to resolve conflicts calmly and diplomaticallyStrong organizational and time-management skillsAbility to work independently while collaborating with multiple departmentsComfort working in fast-paced, outdoor, and stable-area environmentsProficiency with basic office technology (email, scheduling systems, racing software preferred)Education And ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredMinimum of 2–5 years of experience in Thoroughbred racing operations, horsemen services, or backstretch management preferredEquivalent combination of education and experience may be consideredPrior experience working directly with owners, trainers, or racing officials strongly preferredPhysical Requirements & Working ConditionsAbility to walk and stand for extended periods in barn and track environmentsAbility to work outdoors in varying weather conditionsAbility to climb stairs, navigate stable areas, and occasionally lift up to 25 poundsExposure 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. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.Work With UsChurchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.Already Work Here?Here's a Link To Apply InternallyEmployee LoginNearest Major Market: Richmond