Trainer Richard Root dead at 82

Richard Root, a trainer of multiple graded stakes winners and longtime board member of the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, died in late August, according to family members. Root was 82.

Root was one of three family members who served as private trainers for Harry Mangurian Jr. from the 1970s through the 1990s, along with his father, Tommy Root Sr., and his brother Tommy Root Jr. During that time, Richard Root was the primary trainer of Mangurian’s homebred Nany, a multiple graded stakes winner who was named a New York-bred champion.

Following his tenure with Mangurian, Root remained active in South Florida, training stakes winners Blazing Rate and Storm Flag. He was elected to the board of directors of the Florida HBPA for multiple terms and served one term as president of the organization.

“Those who knew Richard knew he was a fighter, the last of a dying breed of men who embodied integrity, strength, and resolve,” his family said.

Root is survived by his wife of 51 years, Heide; a son, Richard Ryan; and two granddaughters.

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