Lee Ann Shellman to Leave Churchill Downs

Dec 22, 2008 CDI Communications

Churchill Downs today announced that Lee Ann Shellman, who since 2003 has served as senior director of premium seating, is leaving the racetrack.  Her final day with Churchill Downs will be Wednesday, Dec. 31.

Shellman joined Churchill Downs in October 1988, and over her 20-year tenure with the racetrack supervised the ticketing of the Kentucky Derby and assisted the Breeders’ Cup team with six editions of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships held at Churchill Downs.  She also oversaw the successful implementation of the Personal Seat Licensing program, managed the Turf Club, and introduced additional membership opportunities for the Turf Club appealing to younger professionals.

“Leaving Churchill Downs was not an easy decision, as I’ve truly enjoyed my time here,” said Shellman.  “I’m grateful to have spent over half my life working for Churchill, and I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished.  Although I will miss the thrill of Derby each year, I’m looking forward to a relaxing break and embracing new experiences and opportunities down the road.”

“Lee Ann has been a Churchill Downs fixture and we will certainly miss her experience and guidance,” said Kevin Flanery, senior vice president of Churchill Downs Incorporated.  “For many years, she has accomplished the outstanding feat of overseeing premium seating responsibilities for the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks, where demand far exceeds supply.  We are very grateful to Lee Ann for her significant contributions over the years, and we wish her the best going forward.”

Churchill Downs has begun the process to identify Shellman’s successor.  She will assist with the transition to ensure a smooth customer experience.

Churchill Downs, the world’s most legendary racetrack, has conducted Thoroughbred racing and presented America’s greatest race, the Kentucky Derby, continuously since 1875.  Located in Louisville, the flagship racetrack of Churchill Downs Incorporated (NASDAQ Global Select Market: CHDN) also operates Trackside at Churchill Downs, which offers year-round simulcast wagering at the historic track.  Churchill Downs will conduct the 135th running of the Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2009.  The track’s 2009 Spring Meet will take place from April 25 through July 5.  Churchill Downs is scheduled to host the Breeders’ Cup World Championships for a record seventh time on November 5 and 6, 2010.  Information about Churchill Downs can be found on the Internet at www.churchilldowns.com.