Assistant Starters
 

Anyone have any idea how much these people make? I was watching TVG and they introduced the assistant starters and all of them have been there over 11 years. One guy has been there 31 years.

Dangerous job ....

Yes, I know. I was amazed to hear how many years these starters have been doing this.

not enough

I totally agree. I don't think I ever want a job that you have to wear a flak jacket, and anything around the starting gate is definately no exception...

ALostTexan

I guess I agree but I do not know what their salary is. But I will take side with you since you know more than I.

It's a really tough job.

Chuck's right....whatever they make it's not enough. I'll try to find out however.

They make around 150.00 a day and that includes having to be there for morning schooling. They are in a union so they get all the benifits that go with that too.

Assuming they work 5 days a week, 52 weeks a year they are making $39k. Which is not enough in my opinion at all. I think that figure should be doubled. Honu, thanks for the info.

It is a really tough job, especially in the morning working with inexperienced horses who are sometimes scared to death and all to willing to kick or flip. They usually only get noticed when something goes wrong.

They usually work 6 days a week ,no gate on Tuesdays. These guys are all in the union so they get benefits that make up for maybe a lil less money.
I would gladly take a pay cut for some benefits.

I'm in my 50's and that is exactly why I still work, for the benefits.

I see the Hollywood Park gate crew and I really think they should leave the long whip at home.