KY Downs seeks full-time turf-course manager

(Grace Clark photo)

Franklin, Ky. (Tuesday, January 10, 2023) — Kentucky Downs is seeking a full-time turf-course manager and groundskeeper to be in charge of year-round maintenance of the track’s 1 5/16-mile grass course as well as overseeing care of the barn area and the facility’s outdoor areas.
The person hired will work closely with consultant Butch Lehr, regarded among the best track superintendents in the world, and Kentucky Downs Vice President for Racing Ted Nicholson. The position includes full benefits, including health, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and a 401K with company match.

Kentucky Downs’ 2023 meet runs Aug. 31 and Sept. 2, 3, 7, 9, 10 and 13.

“We run only seven days a year, but we want the best turf course in America and that requires year-round attention,” Nicholson said. “We’re looking for someone who has track-maintenance experience, is hands-on, works well with people and will mentor the other team members on the track crew. This is a prime job for someone who wants to be part of the country’s best turf racing and also to learn under a legend like Butch.”

For more information and to apply, go to themintkentuckydowns.com/careers.

Jennie Rees is a communications and advocacy specialist in the horse industry who spent 32 years covering horse racing for The (Louisville) Courier-Journal before taking a corporate buyout. In addition to handling communications for the Kentucky HBPA, Rees is Kentucky Downs’ publicity director, manages in-season racing publicity for Ellis Park and serves as a consultant to the National HBPA. Other projects include the Preakness Stakes, Indiana Grand’s Indiana Derby Week and work for various HBPA affiliates and horsemen’s associations.