Roxanne Tanner named director of racing

Roxanne Tanner has been named director of racing for Louisiana Downs, the Bossier City, La., track announced Wednesday. She will oversee all aspects of racing operations, including mutuels, at the facility that also houses a casino.

Tanner takes over from Matt Crawford, a 30-year racing official in the Southwest who is retiring, according to a separate press release from Louisiana Downs. Crawford also served as racing secretary for Louisiana Downs. The track has launched a search for a new racing secretary, a position Tanner hopes will be filled by the first of the year.

Tanner, 39, is a native of Hot Springs, Ark., and a graduate of Henderson State University. She has been with Louisiana Downs for nearly three years, serving as a racing ambassador, a role she will continue in, she said.

Tanner previously was the player development coordinator for Oaklawn Anywhere, an account-wagering platform owned by Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Ark. She also has spent time working for two racetrack veterinary groups, Kentucky Equine Medical Associates and Revolutionary Equine Veterinary Services.

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“I’m very appreciative of everyone that has helped get me to this point in my career and I very much wish Matt Crawford all the best,” Tanner said. “He’s done a lot of great things with us here at Louisiana Downs. I’m looking forward to working with the amazing horsemen and horsewomen of Louisiana Downs.”

Kevin Preston, co-owner of Louisiana Downs, announced Tanner’s promotion.

“I couldn’t be more proud of Roxanne and all she’s done so far at the property, and looking forward to her next chapter with us,” he said in a press release. “Her knowledge, experience, and relationships will help carry Louisiana Downs as we continue to make improvements and enhancements to our iconic track.”

Louisiana Downs, the home of the Super Derby, concluded its Thoroughbred meet in September. The track will start its Quarter Horse meet Jan. 9.

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