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Life at the Track

From the Big Easy to the Derby City, Vice President of Racing Gary Palmisano Always Remained
Close to the Racetrack

Written by Kelli Kinman

Photography by Andrew Kung Group

Being the only child of a Thoroughbred racehorse trainer had its perks. Growing up in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gary Palmisano was born into the world of horse racing and loved every minute of it. He chose to spend his days at Fair Grounds Race Course, immersing himself in an environment that ultimately shaped his career.  

“I grew up on the backside. I spent almost every day after school and every weekend there. That’s where I wanted to be,” Palmisano recalls. 

With a father as a trainer, it was natural for him to gravitate toward wanting to work on the backside. The role of a trainer is often passed down through generations, but Palmisano’s father had a different vision. He didn’t want his son to endure the demanding 365-day-a-year travel schedule or prolonged time away from family. 

“He never let me be super hands-on with the horses. He knew I’d be in racing in some capacity but encouraged me to focus on the front side of the industry,” Palmisano explains. “Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for that decision.” 

This shift in focus opened up new opportunities for Gary around the track. Sitting in the racing office, observing the stewards, and networking with influential figures in the clubhouse gave him a broader perspective of the industry. 

His father trained horses for the Krantz family, the former owners of Fair Grounds. This connection granted Palmisano access to high-profile meetings and dinners with political figures, offering him a rare behind-the-scenes look at racetrack operations. 

One defining moment came when family friend G. J. Hart—then President of Louisville-based Texas Roadhouse—invited the Palmisano family to Louisville to attend the Kentucky Derby. 

“I got to do the walkover with trainer Dallas Stewart who had his horse Dollar Bill competing that year. That experience cemented my love for the industry and Churchill Downs,” he says. “I knew this was where I wanted to be.” 

After high school, Palmisano moved to Kentucky, to attend the University of Louisville’s Equine Business Program. This allowed him to earn a business degree tailored to the racing industry. Though far from Louisiana, his family supported the move, relying on their many industry friends to ensure he felt at home in Louisville. “They reassured my family that I wouldn’t starve,” he laughs. “Some even invited me over for Thanksgiving dinner.” 

During his freshman year, Palmisano landed an internship in the marketing department at Churchill Downs Racetrack—a position he held throughout his college years. With his foot in the door, he knew he was on the right path. 

After graduation, he returned to Louisiana for an 18-month rotational program at Fair Grounds (now owned by �۲�ݮ��Ƶapp). He spent two months in each department, from human resources to food and beverage operations, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the industry. 

“Growing up around racing, studying it in college, interning at Churchill Downs, and then seeing every aspect of operations firsthand put me in an incredible position to succeed,” Palmisano says. “Most of my peers were either extremely horse-oriented or entirely business-focused but having exposure to both gave me a unique advantage.” 

Once his rotation ended, he returned to Louisville to launch his career at Churchill Downs. He held various roles, including Director of Race Day Operations, Simulcast Marketing Manager, and VIP Player Host and Coordinator for TwinSpires.com. He also took part in various equine related activities and events to allow him to still connect with the horsemen and women on a personal level. 

“Seeing my father navigate the pressures of training gave me an appreciation for what horsemen go through,” he explains. “That perspective, combined with my operational experience, has been invaluable in my career.” 

Now, as Vice President of Racing at �۲�ݮ��Ƶapp, Palmisano oversees nine racetracks across the country, facilitating strategic discussions and ensuring each property has the resources needed to thrive. 

“I work closely with our teams at each track, liaise with our legal and gaming departments, and explore growth opportunities,” he says. “Every day is different, and that’s what makes it exciting.” 

A key part of his role involves working with state racing commissions and the corporate government relations team to advance racing initiatives across the country. 

“As someone who grew up loving this sport, being able to contribute to its growth, especially at Churchill Downs, is a dream come true,” he says. “It’s like playing for the Yankees. It’s the cream of the crop and the best it can get. The ability to do what I love for such an incredible historical organization means the world to me.” 

Palmisano has attended the Kentucky Derby numerous times, but the experience never gets old. Each year, he sets a goal to watch the race from a different vantage point—whether it’s the first-floor grandstand, the rooftop, or the infield turf course. 

“My favorite spot so far is the infield turf course,” he says. “You feel the energy of the crowd, and when the horses thunder past, you can feel it beneath your feet. It’s exhilarating.” 

Palmisano met his wife, Megan, while they were both students at UofL. They have been married for seven years and have two children, Addison and Conner, as well as a puppy named Jax. Though neither hails from Louisville, they chose to make it their home. 

“Louisville is definitely home for us,” he says. “We love it here.” 

Their daughter, Addie, shares his passion for racing. At home, one of their televisions is always tuned in to a Churchill Downs-owned racetrack, and Addie has taken a keen interest in watching the races. 

“She loves being around the horses and absorbing the atmosphere,” Palmisano says. “I wouldn’t be surprised if she ends up involved in equine sports.” 

Just as his father did for him, Palmisano wants his children to pursue their own passions, whether in horse racing or elsewhere. 

“My family never pushed me into horse racing—it just came naturally,” he says. “If that’s the path my kids choose, I’ll support them wholeheartedly. But I have a feeling Addie already has the horse bug, just like I did.” 

As his career at Churchill Downs continues, his ultimate goal remains unchanged. During his time as a marketing intern, he had a conversation with then-President of Churchill Downs Racetrack, Kevin Flanery. 

“He asked about my dream job, and I told him I wanted to be President of Churchill Downs Racetrack,” Palmisano recalls. “I think I caught him off guard, but that’s still the goal. Everyone I work with knows it, and I’m determined to get there.” 

 Gary Palmisano’s journey from his early days at Fair Grounds to his current executive role at CDI exemplifies a blend of passion, dedication, and strategic vision. His contributions continue to shape and elevate the landscape of Thoroughbred racing.