Santa Anita fixture Frank Garcia dead at 58

Frank Garcia, a longtime fixture at Santa Anita as a stable gate attendant, died recently after an extended illness. Garcia was 58.

Anyone who drove past the horsemen’s entrance to the east side of the stable area, or to a nearby valet parking lot frequented by horse owners and trainers, likely encountered Garcia in recent decades.

Based at that highly-traveled location of the racetrack property, Garcia warmly greeted people from all aspects of racing, from backstretch and track employees, front office executives as well as owners, trainers and jockeys.

In an Instagram post published earlier this week, Teamsters Local 495 paid tribute to Garcia.

“Frank dedicated much of his life to the track and the people who loved it,” the statement read in part.

“Known for his warm smile and his familiar greeting – How are you today?” - Frank made everyone feel welcome.”

Garcia was an Air Force veteran. Funeral services have not been finalized.

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