Hays named head starter at Churchill Downs

Todd Stephens comes in from California to become Ellis Park starter

Edited press release (Coady Media photo above of Caleb Hays)

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Friday, July 4, 2025) – Two longtime gate crew veterans with decades of experience were recently appointed to head starter positions at Kentucky racetracks. Caleb Hays has been named head starter at Churchill Downs and Turfway Park, while Todd Stephens will serve as the head starter at Ellis Park.

Hays, a fixture at Churchill Downs for nearly two decades, officially takes over the starting gate duties after being named interim starter during the Spring Meet. Hays has worked on the gate for 19 years, including the past 17 at Churchill Downs. He began his career at River Downs under Mark Harring and has since worked under a respected group of starters, including “Spec” Alexander, Scott Jordan and Jeff Powell. Hays already was the starter at Turfway Park and filled in at Churchill Downs after the Kentucky Derby when Scott Jordan left for the New York Racing Association.

During his time on the gate, Hays has handled some marquee horses, including Kentucky Derby winners Nyquist and Mystik Dan. He is the son of the late Danton “Danny” Hays, a widely respected horseman and former assistant starter.

“It’s a great honor to step into this role at Churchill Downs and Turfway,” Hays said. “I’ve been fortunate to work under some of the best in the business and I’m proud to follow in their footsteps.”

Ben Huffman, vice president of racing for Churchill Downs, added: “Caleb has earned this opportunity through years of steady leadership and respect from his peers. He brings integrity, character and a calm presence that’s critical for a position like this. We’re confident he’ll continue the high standards that define our starting gate.”

Meanwhile at Ellis Park, Stephens takes over head starter duties for the 2025 summer meet after more than 25 years on the gate in California. Stephens spent the bulk of his career at Golden Gate Fields and previously worked at Bay Meadows before its closure in 2008.

“Todd brings a wealth of experience during his time in the Upper Northwest,” said Baley Hare, Ellis Park racing secretary. “He’ll be a big asset to our racing program.”

Both Hays and Stephens start their new roles immediately.