Job Description

Job Location: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73111
Position Type: SeasonalEducation
Level: High School
Travel Percentage: None
Job Shift: Day
Job Category: General LaborEssential Job Functions:
- Primary responsibility is to ensure all participants have an equal opportunity to a fair start in the race
- Daily maintenance of the starting gate making sure the starting gate electrical/mechanical systems are in good working order, assuring the starting cord is plugged in and routed to the starter stand, repeating these activities as necessary
- During the running of the races, stay in constant two-way radio communications with the Stewards, Outriders, Paddock Judge, Track Maintenance and Track Veterinarian.
- Testing of the starting gate before the first race to make sure it is in proper working order and is subject to testing before each race.
- Shall be assigned to specific horses based on the order prescribed by the Stewards prior to the first race unless the Head Starter determines safety dictates a change.
- Assist in loading of the horses in a race, the type of equipment utilized to try to ensure a safe load and fair start lead shank, flipping halter, pads, blanket, etc.
- Raise their arms and hands in the air above their heads immediately after the opening of the starting gate.
- Assist with the schooling and gate works of horses during training hours.
- May drive starter gate truck and be expected to maintain the starter gate truck and starter gate are in/remain in good working order.
- Provides daily assistance to the Starter for operational needs.
- Set numbers on top of the starting gate, making sure that the number on the stall matches the number assigned to the horse being loaded into the gate.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education:
- Completion of high school diploma or GED
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Previous skills handling horses preferably in a racing environment.
- Must have good balance and excellent reflexes
- Ability to handle horses weighing in excess of 900 pounds.
- Operational knowledge of horse racing and starting gate knowledge
- Good balance and reflex skills • Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure.
- Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships. • Ability to understand and follow instructions
- Ability to work a flexible and irregular schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays
Training and

Experience:
- 3-6 months of experience with horses and/or horse racing track experience is required
- Starting Gate experience on horse racing track preferred. Licenses/Certifications/Other:
- Must be able to pass a background check and receive a license or permit from any Regulatory Agency if applicable to perform the essential job functions
- Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug test with a negative result
- Ability to obtain a valid driver’s license