SHAKOPEE, MN – After an exhaustive search following long time racing secretary Doug Schoepf’s retirement in October, Canterbury Park announced today that longtime New Mexico racing executive Robert Junk will call Shakopee home in the summer.

“I am thrilled to be involved with an organization that is moving forward and that is dedicated to improving its racing product,” Junk said. “I spoke with many horsemen and they all were positive about racing at Canterbury and the direction it is headed. I look forward to the opportunity and the challenge.”

Junk, 55, currently holds the position of racing secretary at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino in Sunland Park, N.M. Sunland Park annually hosts the Grade III Sunland Derby, a stepping stone to the Kentucky Derby. He also has been racing secretary at Ruidoso Downs and directed the running of the All American Futurity, the richest race in American Quarter Horse racing, 13 times. 

Canterbury’s May to September racing season will dovetail nicely for Junk as he will continue his duties as racing secretary at Sunland where live racing is conducted from December to April.

“Robert’s vast experience in horse racing and his ability to communicate with the stakeholders in the industry, the owners, trainers, jockeys, and employees, will benefit Canterbury Park greatly,” Canterbury Park Vice President of Racing Operations Eric Halstrom said. “Canterbury Park has momentum that will continue with Robert as racing secretary.”