Starlight Names New Communications Director

Jessica Paquette, who was most recently the senior director of communications at Suffolk Downs, has been named director of communications for Starlight Racing.

Paquette, 29, who also worked as the racing analyst and television personality at Suffolk Downs in East Boston, Mass., has been president of the New England Turf Writers' Association since 2010.

"Jessica has a diversified background in a number of areas that can benefit our team, and we're looking forward to having her working with us," Starlight co-managing partner Jack Wolf said in a release.

"I am thrilled to be coming on board with the team at Starlight and StarLadies Racing, especially at such an exciting time," Paquette said. "I'm looking forward to getting a chance to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry."

Among the current stars of Starlight Racing, managed by Wolf and Donnie Lucarelli, is the undefeated 3-year-old colt Itsaknockout. The bay son of Lemon Drop Kid   won the Besilu Stables Fountain of Youth Stakes (gr. II) on a disqualification Feb. 21 for his third win from as many starts.

StarLadies Racing, managed by Laurie Wolf and Barbara Lucarelli, is represented on the road to the Longines Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) by Eskenformoney, third in the Feb. 21 Davona Dale Stakes (gr. II).

"No one is happier than I am to welcome Jessica to the team," Starlight chief operating officer Donna Barton Brothers said. "Her background in writing, website management, social media, and events coordination make her a natural fit for this position at a time when we have a lot to be excited about with regard to the horses."