Starter (Summer 2026)

Churchill Downs Incorporated

10d • Onsite

About The Position

Colonial 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 SUMMARY
The Starter begins each live race at the scheduled post time.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One to three months related experience and/or training.
• Must obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission racing license.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented and thorough with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to consistently comprehend, retain and execute written, verbal and demonstrated directions, explanations and guidance.

Nice To Haves

• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the fair and equal start of each race at the scheduled post time by means of a starting gate and bell or other device activated by signal.
• Ensures that horses are loaded in order of post position; may load an unruly or factious horse out of order or may start such horse outside the starting gate.
• Approves each horse to start.
• Maintains a schooling list and posts in the Racing Secretary’s office the names of all horses ineligible to start for want of adequate training leaving the gate.
• Monitors horse and driver activities, as well as reports any disobedience of orders or attempts to take unfair advantage at the starting gate and recommends penalties for offenders.
• Maintains a written record showing the names of all starters during the day and the names of the assistant starters who handled each horse.
• Maintains constant radio communication with the Stewards from the time the horses leave the paddock until the field is sent away.
• Consults with presiding judges regarding starter approval, blinker cards, penalties, and other areas.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED