Churchill Downs promotes new TwinSpires online gaming president

Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI) has confirmed the promotion of Ben Murr to the permanent role of president of its TwinSpires subsidiary and online gaming business.

Murr had been serving in the role on an interim basis since November when he replaced Ian Williams, who moved to become president of Wynn Interactive.

A 24-year veteran of the gambling sector, Murr will be responsible for the overall strategy and operations of the TwinSpires and online gaming businesses.

During his 14 years with CDI, Murr has served in multiple leadership roles including president of United Tote, senior vice president and chief technology officer and, most recently, as interim President of TwinSpires and Online Gaming.

Churchill Downs CEO William Carstanjen paid tribute to Murr and the impact he’s had on the business during his time with Churchill Downs across various roles.

“During his tenure with CDI, Ben has been an important leader in the growth across our operations,” said Carstanjen.

“He has been a key player throughout the extensive changes in our company over the last 14 years and will continue to move our TwinSpires and online gaming businesses forward,” he added.

Murr will remain a senior vice president of Churchill Downs in addition to his responsibilities as president of TwinSpires and Online Gaming.

Murr’s promotion is effective immediately, with Churchill Downs suggesting it would “move quickly” to fill the senior vice president and CTO roles vacated as a result of his promotion.

“I’ve been heavily involved with TwinSpires and our online gaming operations throughout my tenure at CDI,” said Murr.

“I am passionate about these businesses and believe strongly in their future growth potential and strategic importance for CDI,” he added.

In December, media reports linked Churchill Downs with a potential sale of the TwinSpires racing brand, reports which saw the operator’s share price rise by 6%.