Racing Valet (Summer 2026)

Racing Valet (Summer 2026)

Responsible for supporting racing operations by assisting jockeys, trainers, and officials in the paddock and on race days to ensure races are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with racing regulations. This is a seasonal position for the summer race meet at Colonial Downs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assists jockeys in the paddock prior to and following races, including escorting jockeys to and from the paddock and starting gate areas.
• Ensures jockeys are properly equipped with required safety gear, silks, saddle cloths, and identification prior to each race.
• Assists with weighing jockeys in and out in accordance with racing regulations.
• Coordinates with trainers, outriders, starters, and racing officials to ensure smooth race flow and timely post parades.
• Maintains order and organization within the paddock area to promote safety for horses, jockeys, and staff.
• Monitors paddock conditions and reports any safety concerns, irregularities, or issues to racing officials.
• Provides professional and courteous assistance to internal and external guests, demonstrating Company service standards at all times.
• Adheres to all Virginia Racing Commission regulations, Company policies, and departmental procedures.
• Resolves issues within the scope of authority and escalates matters beyond that scope to the appropriate supervisor.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Thoroughbred racing operations, paddock procedures, and racing terminology.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively around horses in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and comply with strict regulatory requirements.
• Ability to multitask and maintain organization during live racing events.
• Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience in horse racing operations, paddock duties, or stable work preferred.
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Racing Commission racing license.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• The Team Member will be required to stand and walk for the duration of the shift.
• While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, reach, handle, or feel objects, equipment, tack, or animals; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
• The Team Member may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, holidays, and all live race days.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• The work environment may include outdoor conditions, crowds, animals, varying weather, and other elements associated with live racing operations.