Behind-the Scenes at CDI
The Race Track Industry Program’s Kentucky trip during the fall semester included a visit to the Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) offices. The visit gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the Churchill racing operations. We were treated to several presentations from members within CDI that connected the classroom concepts learned in Race Track Organization, Structure and Financial Management with their real-world applications.
Mike Ziegler, the executive director of racing for CDI, talked about his 20+ years of industry experience in a variety of positions–from his work as vice president of Bay Meadows to his current position at CDI, where Mike focuses on the company’s commitment to U.S. Thoroughbred racing.
Ed DeRosa holds the position of director of marketing for Brisnet which is a provider of handicapping data and information, as well as a place that racing enthusiasts can go to for news related to the horse racing industry. Ed oversees the marketing and the creation of new products as well as content for the Web. He’s also a handicapper and appears on the Churchill Downs track feed providing the public with his expert picks. Nate Simon, president of United Tote, and Vic Harrison, the senior director of sales also spoke. United Tote has been a supplier of pari-mutuel products and services serving the pari-mutuel industry since 1959. Churchill Downs acquired the company in 2010 and has overseen its continued innovation of wagering technology products for the racing industry. It was fascinating to learn about and see the United Tote hub at the corporate offices in Louisville, Kentucky. — David Range