Growing up in Kansas, Steve Sexton learned a lot about the importance of a strong work ethic and goal setting.
Sexton is one of the thoroughbred industry’s most successful leaders. He began his career in 1983 at Santa Anita Park and has spent time at Golden Gate Fields and Lonestar Park.
Sexton joined Arlington Park in 2002 and led successful hosting of the 2002 Breeder’s Cup. With only nine months to prepare Sexton’s team was able to add an extra 40,000 seats and all the necessary support infrastructure leading to a Breeder’s Cup world wagering record of $116 million.
Sexton became president of Churchill Downs in 2003 becoming only its twelfth president since 1875. He oversees all Kentucky pari-mutuel operations as well as the company’s interest in Kentucky OTB, Inc.
He lives and leads by the maxim if you aren’t taking care of your customers, someone else will.
Here is Steve’s obituary: