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Gary McRae, Western Fair Association’s CEO, was elected
the 2006 Chair of the International Association of Fairs and
Expositions (IAFE) during the 115th IAFE Annual Convention,
held last week in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Gary’s initial position with the Western Fair was Mutual
Manager in the harness racing operation and Midway Manager
for the independent midway operation. He progressed through
the organization and was promoted to the position of Western
Fair’s General Manager in 1991. He was named to his
current position in 2005. He has overseen $66 million in upgrades
and expansion during the past 16 years, including an extended
slot lounge, a new 165,000-square-foot Agriplex, a Race Paddock,
and a four-pad arena facility.
Gary is a member and past director of the Rotary Club of
London and is currently president of Tourism London. He has
served as President of the Canadian Association of Fairs and
Exhibitions, as President of the Racetracks of Canada, and
as a Director of the IAFE. He received his Certified Fair
Executive designation from the IAFE in 1993 and has served
on various IAFE committees.
Gary’s Western Fair responsibilities are varied and
include the year-round horse racing and simulcast wagering
operation, a slot lounge operated by the Ontario Lottery and
Gaming Corporation, an Agriplex, and a four-pad Sports Centre,
along with the Carousel Room, Progress, Canada, Confederation
and Special Events Buildings that host numerous banquets consumer
and trade shows. The Western Fair’s premier event, however,
remains the annual 10-day fair held in early September each
year.
When asked about his management philosophy Gary stated, “listen
to your customers, develop a loyal and committed support staff,
never stop learning, and be willing to take risks and make
positive changes.”
The Western Fair Board of Director’s, associated members,
staff and volunteers all wish to express our congratulations
to Gary on this significant achievement in his career.
Anne Eadie - 519/438-7203 EX 223
aeadie@westernfair.com
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