Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: CHDN) announced Tuesday appointments in racing leadership for Colonial Downs Racetrack (“Colonial Downs” or the “Racetrack”) in New Kent, Virginia. CDI assumed ownership of Colonial Downs in November 2022, upon completing the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Peninsula Pacific Entertainment.
Frank Hopf has been appointed Sr. Director of Racing Operations for Colonial Downs where he will oversee all racing operations including mutuels, track surfaces and racing office personnel. Hopf brings 13 years of career experience from Sam Houston Race Park where he served in a variety of leadership roles, most recently as Assistant General Manager. In his new role at Colonial Downs, Hopf will manage the relationship with valued horsemen's group partners in Virginia, including the Virginia Equine Alliance (VEA) and the Virginia National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (Virginia HBPA).
Stanley Shina has been promoted to Racing Secretary at Colonial Downs after previously serving as Assistant Racing Secretary for the Racetrack. Shina has been a staple in the racing industry having served over 40 years in a number of roles as well as 10 years as a trainer. In addition to his promotion at Colonial Downs, Shina will still serve as the Assistant Racing Secretary at Tampa Bay Downs, a position he has filled for 19 years.
“We are extremely excited to announce these qualified appointments as the company focuses on building racing in Virginia and taking it to new heights,” said Gary Palmisano, Executive Director of Racing for CDI. “Frank's vast experience at Sam Houston make him well-suited for this position at Colonial Downs and we are thrilled to welcome him to the CDI team. Stanley brings a wealth of racing industry knowledge and is certain to thrive in his new role. Frank, Stanley and the entire racing team at Colonial Downs are poised for a successful 2023 meet.”
CDI announced that Colonial Downs' 2023 meet will include three internationally-renowned Thoroughbred stakes races for the first time: the Arlington Million, Beverly D. Stakes and Secretariat Stakes. Live racing will return to Colonial Downs July 13 to September 9, Thursday through Saturday with free General Admission access.
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