Drexler, Wetzel Named to Mahoning Valley Racing Positions

Hugh Drexler has been appointed to the position of Director of Racing while Candy Wetzel will serve as Assistant Director of Racing at Mahoning Valley, the track announced Tuesday.

Drexler will begin his duties Sept. 2, pending normal regulatory approvals.

Drexler formerly served as the Racing Secretary at Thistledown in 2020/2021. The University of Arizona Racetrack Industry graduate has most recently been general manager of the North Dakota Horse Park where he has overseen racing, gaming and facilities for that organization. Drexler is a Level III accredited ROAP graduate and previously worked for Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course.

“I’m excited to rejoin the Ohio Thoroughbred racing circuit and look forward to strengthening Mahoning Valley’s position as a premier racing and entertainment destination,” said Drexler.

Ohio native Wetzel, a member of the HGMVRC team since its opening in 2014 while working as a manager in the racing pari-mutuels area, most recently was a part of the team to implement sports wagering at the facility. Wetzel, a ROAP accredited racing official, hails from a family has been involved in Thoroughbred racing in Ohio for many years.

“I am appreciative of this wonderful opportunity and look forward to my new role and being able to contribute to the continuing success of horse racing at Mahoning Valley,” said Wetzel.

Robert Swedinovich, General Manager for HGMVRC, added, “We are glad to welcome both Hugh and Candy into our racing leadership positions. Both bring their own unique experiences and a passion for horse racing which should benefit HGMVRC and Ohio racing going forward.”