by Emily Gaskin, for Hoosier Park Racing and Casino

Anderson, IN — Hoosier Park Racing & Casino has named Jim Shelton as the Standardbred track superintendent, effective immediately. The 45-year-old native of Ohio brings a wealth of experience to his new position.

Acting as superintendent, Shelton will be in charge of the condition of the racing surface as well as overseeing the entire track operations and staff. Shelton brings more than 30 years of experience in the horse racing industry to the Anderson race track.

“Jim comes highly recommended, has a lifetime of experience in the horse racing industry, and has the knowledge of race track surfaces that we need,” said Brian Elmore, vice president and general manager of racing at Hoosier Park. “We are confident that we have found the right person to help us maintain Hoosier Park’s seven-eighths-mile surface as a safe and great place to race horses in the state of Indiana.”

Shelton, a third generation horseman, most recently worked at Tioga Downs in Nichols, N.Y., where he served as track superintendent. Shelton has also worked as a racing surface consultant for Charles E. Coon & Sons Inc., the leading builder of Standardbred tracks in North America.

He began his career in the horse racing industry in the mid-1980s as a trainer and driver. In addition to his years in racing, Shelton also boasts a vast knowledge of heavy machinery and the tools necessary to accomplish his duties.

“I am not only excited to have the opportunity to work with Hoosier Park, but the Indiana horsemen as well,” Shelton said. “I am really looking forward to jumping right in and working with the Hoosier Park team to produce the best racing surface possible.”

Hoosier Park will embark upon its 2013 Standardbred season on Tuesday (April 2). The meet will follow a Tuesday-Saturday live racing schedule with post time at 5:30 p.m. each night.