Anderson resident Pat Wood was presented with the 2008 Indiana Horse Racing Commission Chairman’s annual award on Nov. 20. IHRC Chairman Sarah McNaught made the presentation to Wood at the beginning of the monthly racing meeting in the Government Center in downtown Indianapolis.

The award is given to the person who has shown great representation and support to the horse racing industry in the state. Wood is the first employee of Hoosier Park to receive the award, according to Tammy Knox at Hoosier Park.

Wood, a longtime horse racing enthusiast, has been a member of Hoosier Park’s customer service team since 1999. A native of Indianapolis, Wood and her husband, Jerry, reside across from the 53rd Street entrance to Hoosier Park and became involved in harness racing as owners during the second year of action in 1995.

For the past nine years, racing fans that have entered Hoosier Park’s facility are greeted by Wood. She now serves on the new Club Centaur Guest Services team for both the casino and the racetrack. She also continues to provide support for promotions during live racing.

“Pat is a great asset to our team,” said Jeff Smith, general manager of racing. “She offers our guests the best possible customer service through her bright smile and infectious enthusiasm for horse racing and for Hoosier Park.”

Wood was recognized statewide for her customer service in 2006. She was one of 21 recipients for the Lieutenant Governor’s Hoosier Hospitality Award, and was presented with the honor at the Statehouse by Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman.

In addition to her work at Hoosier Park, Wood serves as personal assistant to Donald Perez, an ophthalmologist in Anderson. Wood has worked for Perez for the past 30 years.