Lakow named Hill 'n' Dale GM

Mike Lakow, the former New York Racing Association racing secretary who was fired with three other people last month in a NYRA shake-up, has joined John Sikura's Hill 'n' Dale Farms as its general manager.

Lakow, who served at NYRA for 10 years, will start in his new position at the Lexington, Ky., stud farm on Aug. 22.

Sikura cited horsemen's support for Lakow after his firing as a positive factor that caught his attention.

"It certainly piqued my interest," said Sikura, who met with Lakow and his family before offering the general manager position. "He had a lot of support, and that speaks volumes about his character and credibility."

In his new role, Lakow will be "the face of the farm," Sikura said, with duties including acting as liaison between the farm, horse owners, trainers, and others.