Ron Walker has been named The Jockey Club steward for Finger Lakes. He takes the place of Samantha Randazzo, who was appointed as The Jockey Club steward for The New York Racing Association tracks.
The appointment was announced by Stuart S. Janney III, chairman of The Jockey Club.
"Ron's many years of experience in the racing industry make him an excellent candidate to fill the role of steward at Finger Lakes," Janney said.
Walker's appointment was official April 20, 2023, and his duties as steward will begin on April 24, the opening day of the race meet.
Walker has been involved with horse racing since 1981 and has been an owner, breeder, trainer, and racing official. Prior to becoming steward at Finger Lakes, he was the state steward for the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission. Before that position, Walker spent nine years as the presiding steward for the New Mexico Racing Commission. He also worked as a steward at Mahoning Valley Race Course and Calder.
Walker is a Racing Officials Accreditation Program certified steward.