MRC CEO Set to Depart Club by End of August

The Melbourne Racing Club is set to embark on the search for a new chief executive following the resignation announcement of Josh Blanksby on Tuesday, reports racenet.com.au. Blanksby, who has served as the chief executive for seven years, will remain with the MRC until August 31 before stepping down. This departure marks the second resignation of a metropolitan racing chief executive in recent months, following Steve Rosich of the Victoria Racing Club in April. Blanksby's next steps remain uncertain, although he has been previously linked to the CEO role at Tabcorp. With a decade-long tenure at the MRC, Blanksby leaves behind a legacy marked by achievements such as overseeing the Caulfield Masterplan development and bolstering membership numbers. He was instrumental in founding the MRC Foundation, which has raised over $5 million for various charities. Notably, Blanksby facilitated the negotiation of a 65-year lease for the Caulfield Racecourse, ensuring public access to the track and infield situated on Crown land. Reflecting on his tenure, Blanksby expressed gratitude for the relationships forged and the accomplishments achieved during his time with the club. Chairman Matt Cain lauded Blanksby as an exceptional leader, highlighting milestones like the Caulfield Masterplan's initial phase delivery and securing a significant partnership with Sportsbet. Under Blanksby's stewardship, the club experienced remarkable growth and innovation within the racing media rights landscape. Cain extended appreciation for Blanksby's dedication and strategic vision, wishing him success in future endeavors.