Starting Gate Driver

Woodbine Entertainment Group; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 28,651 - 40,806; Full time

Job summary

Woodbine Entertainment Group in Hamilton, Ontario, is hiring for a position involving driving the starting gate during live and qualifying races. Candidates should possess thorough knowledge of the horseracing industry and ability to make critical decisions under pressure.

The role requires a minimum high school education and a valid driver's license. Successful applicants will contribute to a diverse and inclusive work environment while ensuring the highest standards of safety during races.

Qualifications

• Minimum high school education.
• Thorough knowledge of horses, horseracing industry, and AGCO Rules of Racing.
• Ability to make decisions in routine or unusual situations.

Responsibilities

• Check starting gate before each racing session.
• Drive the starting gate safely during live racing.
• Assist during on-track accidents or incidents.

Skills

Knowledge of horses and horseracing industry

Ability to make decisions

Influencing skills

Education

Minimum high school education

Tools

Valid driver's license

Job description

A NEW BREED OF ENTERTAINMENT With almost 150 years of proud horseracing history, Woodbine Entertainment Group is the founding pioneer and largest operator of professional horseracing in Canada. Building on our rich past, we are surging ahead to the future with an energized, new vision. Today we deliver the most thrilling and highest quality racing, dining and entertainment experiences to our visitors. In doing so, we remain a world‑leader in horse‑racing — and also among the most exciting and diverse entertainment facilities on the globe.

What you will do:

• Check the starting gate before the start of each qualifying and live racing session to ensure it is in proper running condition, and liaise with the appropriate department to schedule any required maintenance.
• Drive the starting gate for live racing and qualifying in an extremely safe manner.
• Take over the accelerator at the start of each race, and follow the field of horses around the track for the duration of the race.
• Assist the Starter during any on‑track accidents or incidents.

Key Success Factors:

• Minimum high school education.
• Thorough knowledge of horses, horseracing industry, AGCO Rules of Racing, company policies, and departmental procedures.
• Ability to make decisions while considering several variables and outcomes in routine or unusual situations.
• Ability to influence individuals to respect the rules and practices established by the Company.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Harness racing experience preferred.

Pay: $25.21

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging: Be yourself. We believe differences should be valued and celebrated. By building diverse and inclusive teams, we strive to provide a more authentic and empowering work experience that unlocks the potential of our people. Regardless of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status, we believe everyone has the right to express their ideas, ambitions, and pursue their goals with confidence and integrity.