What are the responsibilities and job description for the Paddock Farrier/Blacksmith (Seasonal) position at Rosie’s Gaming and Colonial Downs?
About Colonial Downs Group
Colonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie’s Gaming Emporium, Rosie’s Game Room, and Virginia Horseplay. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Colonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie’s Gaming Emporium, Rosie’s Game Room, and Virginia Horseplay. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
- Perform routine trimming, balancing, and shoeing of Thoroughbred racehorses according to individual training and racing schedules.
- Assess hoof condition, conformation, and gait to recommend appropriate shoe types, materials, and corrective techniques.
- Fabricate, fit, and apply specialized racing plates, bar shoes, and therapeutic devices as required by the veterinarian or trainer.
- Maintain accurate and timely records of shoeing dates, hoof conditions, and corrective work for each assigned horse.
- Provide farrier services for incidents such as lost, twisted, or damaged shoes during training or racing.
- Work collaboratively with trainers, veterinarians, and stable staff to develop hoof care strategies for injury prevention and performance enhancement.
- Stay current on US racing regulations, track rules, and best practices in farriery for Thoroughbred racing.
- Participate in pre-race shoe inspections and certifications as required.
- Professional certification preferred.
- Minimum 3 years’ experience as a professional farrier, with specific experience working with Thoroughbred racehorses.
- Ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure racing environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with trainers, veterinarians, and racetrack officials.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission (VRC) racing license.
- Must be able to lift up to 75 lbs.
- Ability to stand, kneel, and bend for extended periods while handling large animals.
- Comfortable working in outdoor environments and around unpredictable horses.
