The Race Track Chaplaincy of America was organized in 1971 and Incorporated in 1972 as a Tax-Exempt, Non-profit Charitable Organization with a National Board of Directors, Constitution and By-laws. The work of the Chaplaincy began in New York tracks on September 1986 with Chaplain-at-Large Norm Evans as an Interim Chaplain. Chaplain Watson served as a full-time Chaplain from March 1987 thru February 2003. Chaplain Humberto Chavez served as interim Chaplain from March 2003-September 2003, and subsequently was named permanent Chaplain as of September 2003. From the inception of the Chaplaincy at the NYRA track in October 1987, the Chaplain has worked under the direct supervision of the local Council which was formed and charted as the Metropolitan New York Division of The Race Track Chaplaincy of America. This Council consists of both Clergy and lay persons from local Churches, Ministries and horseman. The Council meets bi-monthly to supervise and support the work of the Chaplaincy.