Passero gets NYRA track job

John Passero on Friday was named track superintendent for the New York Racing Association's three tracks - Aqueduct, Belmont Park, and Saratoga.

Passero was with the Maryland Jockey Club for 17 years, and as senior vice president oversaw the track and stable operations at Laurel, Pimlico, and Bowie Racetrack and Training Center. He left there this summer to consult on the rebuilding of the main track at Fort Erie Racetrack in Canada.

Before joining the Maryland Jockey Club, Passero was track superintendent at Arlington Park for nine years.

"We are truly pleased to have John join NYRA," said Charlie Hayward, president and CEO of the NYRA. "John is recognized as the best track superintendent in the country. He will be a major contributor to what is, in our opinion, the finest operational staff in the industry."

Passero will begin work at NYRA next month. Current track superintendent Jerry Porcelli will remain with NYRA and report to Passero.