Javier Barajas returns as Ellis Park’s track superintendent

Ellis Park press release (Photo above credit Coady Media)

HENDERSON, Ky. (Tuesday, March 24, 2026) – Veteran track superintendent Javier Barajas has rejoined Ellis Park Racing & Gaming, returning to a role he previously held in 2020.

Barajas is regarded among the best track superintendents in the world. He most recently served as track superintendent at Canterbury Park from 2023 to 2025 and brings more than four decades of experience in racetrack maintenance. His career has included overseeing surfaces at tracks across the globe, including Keeneland, Arlington Park, Fair Grounds, Golden Gate Fields and Meydan Racecourse.

Barajas succeeds Chris Bosley, who served as Ellis Park’s track superintendent for the past two years and was promoted to assistant track superintendent at Churchill Downs.

Ellis Park’s backstretch will open for horses Saturday, May 9, with the first day of training scheduled for Monday, May 11.