Stronach group executive Butler takes on racing operations role

Aidan Butler, the chief strategy officer of The Stronach Group, the parent company of Golden Gate Fields and Santa Anita, has been given the additional role of acting executive director of the company’s California racing operations, according to a statement released on Thursday.

One of Butler’s primary responsibilities will be the continuation of policies enacted earlier this year to improve horse safety after 30 horses were euthanized as a result of injuries in training or racing during the track’s six-month meeting from late December to June 23.

Earlier this year, Santa Anita announced several protocols to enhance safety, including greater oversight of which horses are allowed to train and race and a reduction in raceday medications.