On Thursday (Nov. 14) Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI) announced the selection of Rick Goodell to chair the organization’s Regulatory Attorney’s Committee. The appointment was made by RCI Chair Dr. Corrine Sweeney.

Goodell, currently Associate Counsel for the New York Gaming Commission, a position he has held for a decade, brings more than two decades of experience to his new post.

A longtime prosecutor, Goodell is a recognized expert in prosecuting racing drug violations. He was Co-Chair of the Model Rules Committee and is currently Chair of the National Racing Compact, an interstate agency of racing regulatory agencies that facilitates the multi-jurisdictional licensing of owners and trainers.

After obtaining his undergraduate degree from William College in Political Economy, Goodell procured his law degree from the Columbia University School of Law in 1987. Sandwiched between two stints practicing privately, Goodell was a prosecutor for the Chautauqua County (NY) District Attorney’s Office.

In 1995, Goodell became Assistant Attorney General for the New York State Attorney General’s Office where he was responsible for managing defense litigation involving New York State in Court of Claims.

Goodell took his current position in 1999 and his duties involve equine drug and other gaming adjudications, equine drug rules and providing legal advice. He is also responsible for daily horse racing legal issues for regulation of Standardbred and Thoroughbred racetracks including oversight of rulings and investigations.

A recipient of the ARCI Exemplary Service Award, Goodell is the co-author of the 2013 Travers Stakes and 2015 Asmussen reports and 2010 S3022A and KRS § 230.3761 (Interstate Compact).

Goodell has also been a guest speaker on a number of equine issues at various venues for the last 10 years.

“This is a key position within the ARCI and we are honored Rick has agreed to accept it,” said ARCI President, Ed Martin.

(ARCI)