Hugh Mitchell has commented on the fact that he is in the process of transitioning away from his positions with the Western Fair District.

In an article by the London Free Press, Mitchell referred to the sentiment his father once conveyed – in that every person’s career has a ‘best before’ date.

“I want to make sure I find that date before anyone else does,” Mitchell laughed while in discussion for the article.

The London Free Press piece has stated that Mitchell is dropping his CEO title, but is holding onto his role of president for roughly the next year in order to oversee changes that are currently underway.

The past 13 years at the London, Ontario facility have been busy for Mitchell. Besides overseeing all of the district’s operations, the Standardbred industry veteran has guided the raceway through the cancellation of the Slots at Racetracks program, which was no easy task.

“The business we are in has been going through sea changes,” Mitchell said. “I’ve been pleased with how we have been able to handle them.”

His organization is also in the process of negotiating with Gateway Casino and Entertainment, which is now operating the casino-gaming sector at the district and is looking to expand on the premises. Mitchell touched on the fact that the district is an entertainment and agricultural facility – something he does not want to see lost going forward.

“Agriculture is part of our DNA,” he told the London Free Press, referring not just to the fair, but also to the city and its surrounding area.

Last month, Woodbine Entertainment announced that Mitchell would be joining its board of directors. He also sits on the board of Ontario Racing.

To read the London Free Press article in its entirety, click here.

(With files from the London Free Press)