Brett
Risi has been named the Regional Operations Manager at Tioga Downs and Vernon
Downs. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Jason Settlemoir, the Regional
Vice President for Racing at Tioga Downs, Vernon Downs, and The Meadowlands.
Risi,
26, is originally from Ilion, NY, and has been the track handicapper at Tioga
and Vernon since 2017. “You could see his enthusiasm since day one,” said
Settlemoir. “He has flourished in that position and is ready to step up
and tackle his new endeavor.” Risi, who will report directly to Settlemoir,
will have new duties that include the overseeing of racing and
simulcasts.
Risi
began attending races at Vernon Downs at the age of eight. By the age of
15, he was attending races weekly with his father, Vincent, and his brother,
Ryan. He became a devoted fan of harness racing and wanted to learn more
about the sport.
At
the announcement, Risi thanked Jeff Gural, chairman of American Racing and Entertainment, and
Settlemoir for the opportunity. “I want to thank Jason Settlemoir for
being my mentor and being somebody I look up to in the industry, [someone] who
has led me in growing into a role like this,” said Risi. “He is not only
my friend but a teacher and coach who I could never thank enough for the opportunity
of a lifetime.”
Risi
also made mention of his family. “My brother and father would pick me up when I
was down. They told me to keep my head up and my time would come.”
Additionally, Risi thanked his girlfriend, Jaci, and his stepson, Lucas. “Jaci
always told me to never give up my dream.”
Risi
will begin his new job immediately and will spend time at both Tioga Dows and
Vernon Downs.
