The Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) announced today that W. Duncan Patterson is the new Chairman of the association.

Patterson, the Chairman of the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission, follows RCI Chairman John Sabini, who officially resigned his position with RCI following his retirement from the New York State Racing and Wagering Board on Friday, January 11, 2013.

Patterson, a former thoroughbred trainer and amateur steeplechase rider, was first appointed to the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission in 1988 by Governor Michael N. Castle, and is also a former member of the Board of Directors for the National Steeplechase Association.

Patterson currently holds the position of President of Patterson-Price Associations, LLC, a commercial real estate agency specializing in the sale of agriculture and development properties. He resides in Rockland, Delaware with his wife, Beasie.

“I am truly honoured to be promoted to this position within RCI, and I look forward to working with racing regulators from around the globe during the challenging times that face the pari-mutuel racing industry,” said Patterson. “I wish my predecessor, John Sabini, the best in his departure from RCI as well as the New York State Racing and Wagering Board.”

In the past Mr. Patterson has served in many capacities within RCI, most notably as the Chairman of the Drug Testing Standards and Practices Committee and as a member of the Model Rules Committee.

“As Duncan Patterson takes the reins of RCI Chairman, he follows in the steps of many qualified and dedicated racing regulators that have led this organization,” said RCI President Ed Martin. “Chairman Patterson is recognized leader and his role at RCI will benefit not only our members but also the racing industry as a whole.”

Patterson will serve as RCI Chairman through the spring of 2014, when his term expires.

(RCI)