Soth leaving Fair Grounds post

Randy Soth is leaving his position as president of Fair Grounds Race Course "to pursue other career interests," according to a press release issued Thursday by Churchill Downs Inc., the owner of Fair Grounds.

Soth came to Fair Grounds from Calder, another Churchill property, where he had served as vice president and general manager.

Soth, who did not return a call seeking comment, was quoted in the press release saying that it had been "a great honor to work as a member of the CDI management team."

Soth came to Fair Grounds in 2004, and had not been there one year when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. Soth oversaw Fair Grounds's move to Louisiana Downs for the 2005-2006 racing season, and played a major part in the physical rehabilitation of Fair Grounds after the hurricane. Soth also was involved in Fair Grounds' successful effort to bring slot machines to the track.

Assuming Soth's responsibilities when he departs Aug. 30 will be Austin Miller, the vice president and general manager of slots and offtrack betting operations at Fair Grounds.

Fair Grounds also recently replaced its racing secretary, hiring Jason Boulet to replace Sam Abbey, who came to Fair Grounds during Soth's tenure.