Gulfstream names Bredar as racing secretary

Doug Bredar, who has more than 20 years experience as a racing official, has been named racing secretary at Gulfstream Park. The 2009 Gulfstream meet opens on Jan. 3.

Bredar, 46, is currently serving as racing secretary at Louisiana Downs and will honor his commitment to finish that meet, which closes on Oct. 18.

Bredar spent 11 years in various capacities in the Gulfstream racing office from 1987 to 1998, and he has also served stints as director of racing and racing secretary at Churchill Downs, Ellis Park, Turf Paradise, and Prairie Meadows. During that time, Bredar has pleased horsemen and horseplayers alike with his ability to put together quality racing programs and produce large, competitive fields.

"Many highly qualified people were interviewed for this position and what distinguished Doug, beyond his experience and obvious capabilities, was his enthusiasm for Gulfstream Park," said Bill Murphy, Gulfstream's president and general manager.

Bredar said he relishes both the challenge and the opportunity to return to Gulfstream Park.

"Since I first became a racing official in 1983, I've always aspired to coming back to south Florida and getting this position at Gulfstream," said Bredar. "I have great memories of working here with outstanding officials like Tommy Trotter, Terry Meyocks, and Bob Umphrey."

Bredar said his first order of business will be to get out the stakes schedule for the 2009 season.

"My initial objectives are to create a more balanced stakes schedule, one which will allow us to keep as many of the south Florida-based horses at home as possible this winter."- Mike Welsch