NYRA replaces starter

After numerous incidents in the starting gate at Saratoga, the New York

Racing Association (NYRA) announced Monday the promotion of Roy Williamson to the

position of starter, replacing Richard Brosseau, who will retire after 31 years

with the NYRA starting gate crew. Brosseau was NYRA's starter for the last four

years.

Williamson joined NYRA in 1985 as an assistant starter.

In addition, Bob Duncan, NYRA's starter from 1970 to 2004, has agreed to

expand his consultant role for NYRA. Duncan, a consultant in starting gate

operations to tracks around the world, conducts gate schooling at Saratoga's

Oklahoma Training Track from April through October. Starting immediately and

extending through the Belmont Fall Championship Meet (September 7 through

October 31), Duncan will be responsible for a comprehensive review of all

starting gate protocols and procedures.

"We are very pleased to be promoting Roy to his new position," NYRA President

and CEO Charles Hayward said. "I am confident that he will work well with Bob

Duncan, as we review and update all starting gate procedures. The starting gate

is the most important aspect of the race and it requires communication,

collaboration and precision. We value Richie Brosseau's contribution to New

York racing over the years, and wish him well in retirement."