RENO — Rick Murdock, vice president of sales and marketing for the Eldorado Hotel Casino, has joined the Reno Air Racing Association as the newest member of the board of directors.

Murdock joins a long list of hoteliers who have served as board members for the organization. The National Championship Air Races are gearing up for their 48th annual event, which kicks off Sept. 14.

“We are thrilled to have Rick Murdock join our team at the National Championship Air Races,” said Mike Houghton, president and CEO of the Reno Air Racing Association. “Our organization is passionate and dedicated, working year-round to ensure we put on the best event possible for aviation enthusiasts and Air Race fans.”

In addition to his role as vice president of sales and casino marketing for the Eldorado, Murdock has played an integral role in the community, including his involvement with the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Northern Nevada Italian Association, the Boys & Girls Club, Sage Ridge School, Ronald McDonald House, Renown Health and the University of Nevada, Reno.

Murdock, who started with the Eldorado in 1981, has become a well-respected leader in the tourism community. He was responsible for the increased support of the Eldorado’s sponsorship of the National Championship Air Races, making them one of the event’s largest and most prominent local sponsors.

The 48th annual National Championship Air Races is the premier air racing event in the world. The Air Races take to the skies Sept. 14 through 18 at the Reno-Stead Airfield. For tickets or more information, visit www.airrace.org or call 972-6663.