New general manager for Owensboro Racing and Gaming named

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – A new general manager for Owensboro Racing and Gaming has been named.

Churchill Downs Incorporated announced that Steve Roof has been named General Manager of Owensboro Racing and Gaming, the company’s seventh Historical Racing Machine (HRM) entertainment venue in the state of Kentucky. In this role, Roof will oversee all operations of the $100 million gaming complex that will include 600 “state-of-the-art” HRMs, a retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering and a food and beverage offering.

Officials say Roof brings over 30 years of gaming and hospitality experience to the role, most recently serving as the Senior Director of Finance for Oak Grove Racing, Gaming and Hotel, also known as Oak Grove, an HRM complex owned by CDI in Oak Grove, Kentucky. During his time at Oak Grove, Roof played a “pivotal” role in leadership development, change management and building a “culture of trust.” He began his career with CDI as the Senior Director of Finance at Harlow’s Casino Resort and Spa in Greenville, Mississippi. Roof has a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Kentucky Wesleyan College and a Master of Business Administration from Western Kentucky University.

“I’m honored and excited to continue my career with CDI in a place that feels like home,” said Roof. “I’m eager to get involved in the community, identify, recruit and hire local talent and deliver to Owensboro a product that will bring extraordinary benefits, opportunities and experiences to the area.”

Officials say the Owensboro project is located on a 20-acre site at the corner of U.S. Highway 60 and Wrights Landing Road and is expected to open in the first quarter of 2025.

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