Dempsey to Retire from Monmouth Park

Monmouth Park said Nov. 17 that director of racing Mike Dempsey, who has been associated with the track since 1979, has announced his retirement, effective Dec. 31.



Dempsey, 60, is a native of Monmouth County and a graduate of the University of Arizona. In 1979 he was hired as the claims clerk for Monmouth Park and has been associated with New Jersey racing ever since.



"Mike has been a valued asset to New Jersey racing for decades," said Bob Kulina, president of Darby Development LLC that operates the racetrack. "More importantly though, he's been a good friend and a valued colleague. His accomplishments speak for themselves and he will be sorely missed by me and the entire Monmouth Park team."



"I've enjoyed every bit of my time at Monmouth and in the racing industry," Dempsey said. "I've been truly fortunate to call Monmouth Park my second home and to work with great people for so many years. For me, the time has come to spend more time with my girls and enjoy being with my family.



"I can now look forward to coming to Monmouth as a fan and enjoying many afternoons with my friends at this facility that has given so many wonderful memories."



Dempsey leaves his post atop the racing office on a high note, having drawn American Pharoah   in the William Hill Haskell Invitational (gr. I), the only Triple Crown winner to race at Monmouth Park. He was also instrumental in building a racing program at the Jersey Shore that included the 2007 Breeders' Cup World Championships and 2010 "Elite Meet."



Monmouth said it expects to name a new racing secretary in the coming days.