from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Longtime racing official Ken Middleton, Sr., 67, died March 6, 2014, at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

The resident of Bobcaygeon, Ontario, who began his career in the racing industry as a teenager in the mailroom at the Ontario Jockey Club, held a number of racing-related positions. He was the Toronto Sun’s handicapper for racing from the Ontario Jockey Club before moving on to be the racing secretary at Kawartha Downs.

He later became the racing secretary and general manager at Elmira Raceway, and was a driving force behind the introduction of full-card simulcast wagering and the creation of the ever-popular Industry Day.

He also worked as the racing secretary and general manager at Hanover Raceway before spending more than the last decade as the author of the Horseplayers’ Journal for the Standardbred program at Woodbine and Mohawk Racetrack.

Mr. Middleton, who was born in Toronto, Ontario, is survived by his wife, Judy (Lacey) Middleton; sons, Keith (Tania) and Ken, Jr. (Stacey); and grandchildren, Justin and Kendal. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernie, Sr.; mother, Eleanor; brother, Ernie, Jr.; and sister, Jackie.

Those wishing to make online condolences to the family can do so by clicking this link.