Michael P. Ballezzi, who retired last year after 25 years as executive director of the Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (PTHA), passed away Wednesday, Aug. 31.
“We've lost not only a great horseman, but also a great friend and leader,” said PTHA board of directors president Salvatore DeBunda. “Mike dedicated 25 years of his life to championing the well-being and care of equine athletes, as well as championing the interests of horsemen at Parx Racetrack and across Pennsylvania. When he retired, Mike left behind an incredible legacy at the PTHA.”
A graduate of Widener Law School, an attorney, and a District Justice in Pennsylvania, Ballezzi's contributions to Pennsylvania racing were extensive. He was instrumental in the passage of the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, which legalized slot machines in the Commonwealth and set aside a percentage of the revenues for purses, breeding incentives, and health and pension benefits; advocated for Parx Racing backstretch improvements; and helped start Turning for Home, the non-profit track-based racehorse retirement program that has placed more than 3,200 horses. He also created The Granny Fund, which provides scholarships to Parx stable employees to continue their education in college and night classes.
Ballezzi had been a licensed Thoroughbred owner since 1973 and was also a former trainer. He served as a member of the national Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (THA) board of directors and was recognized in 2020 for outstanding service to the racing industry. He was honored in 2019 by Parx with the naming of the M.P. Ballezzi Appreciation Mile. Ballezzi was named 2008 PTHA Man of the Year and was inducted into the Parx Racing Hall of Fame in 2014.
“Mike Ballezzi's impact on Pennsylvania racing, horsemen, and our retired race horses will live on for many years to come,” said Jeffrey Matty, executive director of the PTHA. “But his impact extends far beyond the policies and programs he championed. He touched so many people on and off the track on a personal level, and that may be his greatest legacy.”
Not a subscriber? Click here to sign up for the daily PDF or alerts.
