Chief Executive Officer, 1/ST RACING & GAMING
Aidan Butler currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of 1/ST RACING & GAMING.
In this role, Butler is responsible for the management and oversight of racing operations at 1/ST owned racetracks and training centers. His focus is on implementing and enforcing global best practices and integrity standards for horse and rider safety in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, while aiming to modernize racing operations. To support the shifting landscape of sports wagering, digital platforms and racing content, Butler leads an integrated team of racing and gaming personnel to leverage 1/ST assets, identify new opportunities, and create trailblazing programs to fully capitalize on the future of sports wagering and gaming.
Butler previously served as Chief Operating Officer, 1/ST RACING and as Chief Strategy Officer for The Stronach Group. During a transformative time in horse racing, Butler was responsible for the implementation of industry-leading health and safety protocols for horses and riders at Santa Anita Park. In addition, Butler was responsible for the development of key stakeholder and strategic relationships and leading Santa Anita Park successfully through the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Always championing the Thoroughbred, and currently owning retired racehorses, Butler proudly joined the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) Board of Directors in 2022.
Originally from England, Butler followed in his grandfather and father’s footsteps to become a licensed bookmaker in the U.K., before relocating to the United States. Butler has extensive experience across a variety of verticals and his expertise has been utilized by numerous organizations in North America and Europe.
