(Edited press release)
Keeneland officials announced Jan. 9 that Ed Blaser, Jr., has been named director of security.
Blaser succeeds Jim Perry, who retired from the position Jan. 5.
"Ed brings a unique combination of law enforcement skill and racetrack experience to the position," said Keeneland president and CEO Nick Nicholson. "We are very pleased to welcome him to our team."
Blaser served as deputy director, and then as director of security for Churchill Downs from 2003-2006, where he coordinated security measures for the Louisville track and trackside training facility, including the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks (both gr. I).
Prior to his position with Churchill Downs, Blaser spent 26 years with the Louisville police force, rising from patrol officer to the rank of Lt. Colonel and commander of operations, in which he supervised such special units as street crimes, S.W.A.T, dignitary protection and crisis intervention.