By Bloodhorse.com
ARCADIA, Calif. (Nov. 30, 2018) — Rick Hammerle has been removed from his position as racing secretary at Santa Anita Park, according to several sources with direct knowledge of the situation.
The decision comes less than a week after track announcer Michael Wrona was removed from his position at the track, along with other employees of The Stronach Group who worked on the Santa Anita simulcast feed and for the Stronach-owned XBTV.
Executives and spokesmen with Santa Anita and its owner, The Stronach Group, who have been contacted about the move either denied knowledge of the situation, did not answer, or directed inquiries to Tim Ritvo, The Stronach Group’s chief operating officer. Ritvo and Hammerle have not answered requests for comment.
Hammerle was listed as the vice president of racing and racing secretary on Santa Anita’s meet application that was conditionally approved by the California Horse Racing Board Nov. 30. There has been no indication as to who will replace Hammerle in those positions.
Santa Anita’s next meet begins Dec. 26.