Arts & Entertainment

Canterbury Park Welcomes New VP of Racing Operations

Eric Halstrom will begin his new position in Shakopee on Oct. 21.

Canterbury Park has announced that a new Vice President of Racing Operations will soon start his position at the Shakopee racetrack. Eric Halstrom will begin his new role at Canterbury on Oct. 21.

For Halstrom, 44, the move is a sort of homecoming. The Bloomington native graduated from Minnesota State University-Mankato and the University of Arizona’s Racetrack Industry Program.

“I grew up in Minnesota and experienced my first horse race at Canterbury. I am excited to be returning home to work at a track that I deeply care for and that has such a bright future,” Halstrom said in a Canterbury Park news release.

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Halstrom was formerly employed at Canterbury Park from 1997 through 2008 before accepting a position at a racetrack in New Orleans. He has served as Vice President and General Manager of Racing at Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots since 2008. His resignation date is Oct. 1.

“I am grateful to Churchill Downs Incorporated for the opportunity at the Fair Grounds,” Halstrom said. “It is a wonderful and historic racetrack with great horsemen and employees.”

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Said Canterbury Park CEO Randy Sampson, “We are thrilled and fortunate to have Eric back. He is a proven leader with more than 20 years of experience in the racing industry. Eric’s reputation in the racing community and knowledge of the industry will be huge assets to Canterbury Park as we continue to improve our racing product.”

Canterbury Park will conclude its 69-day season Sept. 14.


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