Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is pleased to announce the appointment of Darren MacDonald to the position of general manager of Hastings Racecourse.

MacDonald, 42, joined the Hastings team as manager of Gaming Operations in 2007 and over the past four years has been extensively involved in the racing side of the business as assistant general manager at Hastings Racecourse.

"Darren has successfully established strong relations with our various stakeholders, including our horsemen's groups and business partners," said Darlene Doyle, executive director of Operations with Great Canadian Gaming Corporation. "We are confident that he will continue to be an asset to our Hastings Racecourse team and Great Canadian family."

With the 2014 thoroughbred season opening April 27, MacDonald said his major focus will be on re-connecting with racing fans through various initiatives. "My goal is to see our product succeed at all levels," he said. "We want to get racing fans more engaged with the sport to continue to build the momentum we've worked at establishing the past couple of years."

The 51-day meet this year runs through to October 13 with four tentative dates reserved for later in October depending upon the success of the summer season. "That is our goal," MacDonald said, "and it's a challenge we welcome."

(Hastings)