Longtime Trainer Angel Montano Dies at 80

Longtime horseman Angel Montano, a former leading trainer at Churchill Downs and other tracks in Kentucky, died late Oct. 1 from a series of health complications. He was 80.

A native of Mexico, Montano began training in the 1960s and won three meet titles at Churchill Downs in the late '70s. He continued training through this year, though the size of his stable had diminished. His last starter came Sept. 24 when Money for Mischief ran third at Churchill Downs, his principal training base in his hometown of Louisville.

According to Equibase records, he won 1,413 races and more than $15.6 million from 1966-2020. He went 10-for-47 this year, with his horses making $121,505.

Montano largely trained claiming horses and was known for improving them under his care. He was also successful in higher-end races, winning the 1995 Churchill Downs Stakes (G3) when Goldseeker Bud defeated Go for Gin and nine others on the Kentucky Derby (G1) undercard.

According to Churchill Downs, he won 378 races at the track since 1968.

He also owned horses, winning nine races from 102 starts since 2000 with runners that raced solely in his name. He notched another 35 victories while owning horses in partnership.

His son, Joe, said his father's assistant Juan Cano would take over the training of much of Montano's current barn of horses. Joe also will play a role in stable operations.

Montano, whose wife, Pat, died two years ago, is survived by his seven grown children, Angel Jr., Joe, Tony, Gloria, Juan, Miguel, and Maria; 22 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Visitation is Oct. 7 from 2-8 p.m. ET at Ratterman Brothers Funeral Home at 12900 Shelbyville Road in Louisville. There will be a service Oct. 8 at 10 a.m.

Memorial gifts are to be directed toward the Backside Learning Center at Churchill Downs.