Doug Schoepf, racing secretary and director of racing at Canterbury Park since it’s reopening in 1995, is leaving both positions to pursue other interests in the racing industry.

“Doug has been a valued member of Canterbury Park’s racing program for more than two decades,” Canterbury Park President Randy Sampson said. “He has been here since the track reopened and provided insightful and much-needed leadership in the early years, drawing on his experience and connections in the industry. He has been a great asset to our racing program and deserves a lot of credit for our success.”

Schoepf held the position of racing secretary at the old Canterbury Downs in 1991 and 1992.  After a 2-year hiatus, the track reopened under the guidance of the Sampson and Schenian families and Schoepf came on board as racing secretary.  He has held that position ever since.

“I am fortunate to have been a part of the success of the racing program at Canterbury Park and I take great pride in what we’ve accomplished,” Schoepf said. “There are other areas of the industry that I would like to explore and look forward to a new challenge. I know Canterbury will have a very promising future.”

Canterbury Park officials have no immediate plans for Schoepf’s successor and will begin a national search in the next month.

“Doug helped set the tone for a horsemen-friendly racetrack, establishing a reputation that has contributed greatly to Canterbury’s ability to fill our backside with horses and put on a competitive racing program,” Sampson said. “Horsemen remained loyal to Canterbury and Doug’s racing office during the years when purses were lean. Doug has been a great leader and an even better friend. On behalf of the Canterbury Park racing community, I would like to thank Doug for his contributions and wish him the best in his pursuits.”