NYRA fires 4 officers, says probe isn't a factor.(Capital Region)

ALBANY - New York Racing Association Chairman Charles Hayward terminated four officers Thursday in a surprise shake-up.

Topping the cuts are Ralph Chetcuti, who was paid $160,000 annually as human resources officer, and Mike Lakow, racing secretary and handicapper, whose salary was $140,000. Also dismissed were veterinarian Celeste Kunz and steward David Hicks.

Hayward declined to explain, other than to say change was needed. He praised the work of the officials and stressed the terminations had nothing to do with an ongoing investigation …