After a distinguished career spanning 45 years, Pat Kelly, a prominent figure in the New York racing circuit, has officially retired from training. At 75, Kelly, who has been gradually scaling back his operations for several years, is looking forward to dedicating more time to his other passions, including golf. “I don’t feel 75, so I’m going to enjoy it while I can,” Kelly stated, reflecting on his decision to step away from the demanding seven-day-a-week profession.
Kelly’s deep roots in horse racing are evident, being the son of the late Hall of Fame trainer Tommy “T.J.” Kelly. His passion for the sport was ignited early, leading him to attend the University of Miami with the intention of walking horses for his father on weekends at Hialeah Park. The allure of the racing world proved irresistible, and he found himself on a “natural progression” into training. This family tradition extends to his siblings; his brothers Larry, Tim, and Dan, along with his sister Patricia, have all been involved in various capacities within the industry. Larry, a former trainer, now works in horse transportation, while Dan assisted their father at Calder Race Course and later served as an assistant starter. Tim currently holds a position as a New York Racing Association safety steward, and Patricia previously helped clock horses at Saratoga Race Course. “It’s a family tradition. In our group, it’s Kellys and horses and that’s about it,” Kelly remarked.
A Career of Graded Stakes Success
Throughout his extensive career, Kelly saddled the winners of 50 graded stakes races. He was instrumental in conditioning several Grade 1 stars, including Evening Attire and Riskaverse. Other notable horses under his tutelage include Christiecat, and the Live Oak Plantation homebred half-brothers Sultry Song and Solar Splendor.
Since 1977, Kelly’s runners have made 8,795 starts, achieving 877 victories. His horses also secured placings in an additional 2,073 races, amassing a total of $42,399,845 in earnings. These impressive statistics underscore his consistent success and dedication to the sport.
Commitment Beyond the Race Track
Pat Kelly’s dedication to the racing community extends far beyond his training achievements. His final racehorse, Fight On Lucy, a 7-year-old mare by Musket Man, became the 1,000th horse retired by New York’s TAKE THE LEAD program. Kelly has been a dedicated board member for this vital organization, founded in 2013 by the late trainer Rick Violette. TAKE THE LEAD plays a crucial role in assisting owners and trainers at NYRA tracks by facilitating the transition of retired racehorses into accredited aftercare programs. The program acts as a liaison, gathering essential information and diagnostics for each horse and then working with Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance-approved partners to arrange suitable placements and transportation.
Kelly has consistently emphasized the importance of the well-being of all horses and the hardworking individuals on the backstretch. His commitment is further demonstrated by his role as a trustee for the Backstretch Pension Fund. He has also been an active member of the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association board since 1990, contributing to the welfare of the racing community. “We’ve been very fortunate over the years to work with some really nice horses and some great people,” Kelly reflected. “Without the people, you can’t train the horses. You can’t just close the factory for a couple days; it is a seven-day a week job.”
Looking Ahead
Pat and his wife, Karen, who have been married for 43 years, plan to divide their time between their home in Miami Springs during the winter months and returning to New York for the summer. With a young granddaughter residing in Floral Park, they will remain connected to the area. Kelly’s retirement marks the end of an era for many in the New York racing scene, but his legacy of success and dedication to the sport, both on and off the track, will undoubtedly endure.
