Courtney C. Reid, a mainstay of the National Steeplechase Association's racing program since November 2015, has been promoted to Manager of Racing Operations, it was announced Monday.
“In a short period, Courtney has become a very important asset to the NSA and steeplechasing,” said Guy Torsilieri, president of the NSA. “She is extraordinarily competent, she is a very quick study, and she has brought much-needed technological skills into our racing operation.”
A native of Williamsburg, Virginia, she holds an undergraduate degree from James Madison University and a master's degree from Liberty University. She previously worked for the Virginia Racing Commission under longtime racing official Bernard J. Hettel.
During her time at the NSA, Reid has graduated from the Racing Officials Accreditation Program's stewards school and become an accredited steward. She also has worked in the racing offices of the New York Racing Association and the Breeders' Cup.
“I am both flattered and grateful that the NSA Board has acknowledged my efforts with a promotion and a new title,” she said. “I am very grateful for the many opportunities the NSA has provided me in the short time I have been with the association, and I look forward to the future…Thoroughbred racing is my passion, and while steeplechasing represents a small segment of the industry, it is steeped in tradition and plays an important role in Thoroughbred history, especially at Saratoga, which is my favorite racetrack.”
Reid will continue to report to Bill Gallo Jr., the NSA's director of racing.
“Courtney Reid has had a distinct and definitive effect on our racing operations at the NSA,” he said. “In a very short time, she has grasped the scope of the racing program and has streamlined many of our racing functions. Her understanding of technology and its benefits when applied to the traditions of racing allows us to move forward with swift precision to better serve our horsemen and the race meets. She is an invaluable asset to me in my role as Director of Racing, and I am delighted that the NSA Board has recognized her many contributions.”
Members of the NSA Executive Committee praised the skills that Reid has brought to the NSA and the talents she has honed in her tenure with the organization.
“Courtney has quickly learned the nuances of the racing office and works well with our horsemen and race meets,” said NSA Vice President Doug Fout, a longtime licensed trainer and Middleburg Spring's president. “In my opinion, she's the best thing to come along for the NSA in a long time. From a horseman's view, she's always on top of her game.”
As a steward, Reid will also be able to provide assistance to officials at race meets.
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