NYTHA Executive Director Gallagher Retires

Jim Gallagher, who was named New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association executive director in 2007, has announced his retirement. Andy Belfiore, NYTHA's director of communications for nearly four years, will assume the role of acting executive director, effective Sept. 8.

"I have really enjoyed my time with NYTHA," Gallagher said. "It is all about relationships, and the ones I have made with owners, trainers, jockeys, agents, and racing officials will remain with me for a lifetime. For that, I am extremely grateful." 

Gallagher brought more than three decades of experience in the racing industry to NYTHA, having previously served as chief of racing operations for the New York State Racing and Wagering Board and vice president of regulatory compliance and pari-mutuel operations for New York Racing Association (NYRA). Prior to joining NYTHA, the Brooklyn native was executive director of the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority.

"After more than 30 years in service to the racing industry, we wish Jim all the best in his well-deserved retirement," said NYTHA president Rick Violette Jr. "We know how much he enjoys to travel, and we hope those travels will bring him back to the track often."

Belfiore started her career in racing on the backstretch at Belmont Park, working as a hotwalker, groom, exercise rider, and assistant trainer. She moved to the frontside at the track, and spent five years in the communications and marketing departments at NYRA.

Belfiore left NYRA in 1993 to take the post as editor-in-chief at the Thoroughbred Daily News, a position she held for 18 years before joining NYTHA in 2011. She also serves as executive director of the TAKE2 Second Career Thoroughbred Program Inc.