Experienced racing administrator Darin Balcombe has been announced as the new chief executive officer of Hawke’s Bay Racing.
Balcombe will replace Andrew (Butch) Castles, who leaves Hawke’s Bay to take up the position of chief executive for the Waikato Racing Club.
Balcombe will commence his position with Hawke’s Bay Racing on April 14 after spending the past two and a half years as a stipendiary steward.
“I’m very excited about it and see it is a tremendous opportunity,” Balcombe said.
“Hopefully I can build on the great things Butch Castles has done with the club. The spring carnival there is one of the most iconic in the country and things are looking very positive for the future.
“I see Hawke’s Bay Racing as being a great club, with a great culture, and I’m looking forward to getting up there and enjoying the beautiful Hawke’s Bay weather.”
Hawke’s Bay Racing chairman Eliot Cooper said he was delighted that the club was able to appoint a person with such a thorough background and expertise in the racing industry to take over the position of CEO.
“We were delighted with the strength of applicants for the position, which is an indication that Hawke’ Bay Racing is well respected and regarded as one of the premier racing club’s in the country,” Cooper said.
“Darin is a great choice as we know we have a good guy that has a thorough grounding in all aspects of the racing industry and who can take the club forward.”
