Jeffrey M. Smith

General Manager – Racing, Hoosier Park Racing & Casino
Managing Director of Racing, Centaur

Jeff Smith brings unparalleled expertise in the development and operation of pari-mutuel racing facilities. Prior to joining Centaur in 2001, he spent 18 years working in key management positions at Churchill Downs.

Jeff led the negotiations with Churchill Downs when Centaur, Inc. acquired sole ownership of the horse racing facility. He has also played a key role in the continued development of Valley View Downs & Casino in western Pennsylvania. His understanding of horsemen’s needs in developing a successful racing product and his rapport with horsemen are keys to Centaur’s progress toward winning approval of the project.

At Churchill Downs Inc. (CDI), he helped develop Indiana’s pari-mutuel racing industry, starting with the construction of Hoosier Park and continuing through its development and serving as its president until joining Centaur.

In addition, Jeff has been president of Ellis Park, a racetrack in Henderson, Ky., acquired by CDI in 1998; and president of Churchill Downs Management Co. Jeff served as chairman of Harness Tracks of America, which represents 45 racetracks in North America.

He is a graduate of the University of Kentucky.