New York Regulator Takes Top RCI Post

Edward Martin, currently executive director of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, will take over as president and chief executive officer of the Association of Racing Commissioners International in April.

Martin has served in his current post since 1997. Previously, he managed the New York Department of Economic Development and was a member of the New York Casino Gambling Commission. Martin also has held positions with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and with New York legislators, including U.S. Sen. Alfonse D'Amato.

"He is an experienced regulator who has a grasp of the important issues and possesses the right blend of experience, knowledge, and ability to lead our organization," RCI chairman Frank Zanzuccki, executive director of the New Jersey Racing Commission, said in a March 9 release. "He also knows he has big shoes to fill. We are confident Ed is up to the challenge and will continue to move the organization forward given his strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills."

Martin will replace Lonny Powell, who earlier this year took an executive position with Youbet.com, the online wagering company.

"RCI's commitment to integrity in racing is unwavering, and as regulators we must continually work to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and fans can have confidence in this sport," Martin said in the release. "It is my hope that RCI can continue to serve as a beacon on matters affecting racing integrity and be a productive forum for all regulators everywhere to discuss and address issues that are common to all jurisdictions, large and small."

RCI will hold its convention in mid-April in Lexington. Ted Connors, chairman of the New Hampshire Racing Commission, will take over as chairman of the organization at the meeting.

Meanwhile, the Arizona Racing Commission and Arizona Department of Racing have rejoined RCI. Arizona regulators were among those who defected in the late 1990s when RCI was in turmoil.