Zaro, breeder and real estate developer, named to NYRA board

Jerry Zaro, a Thoroughbred breeder and owner and real estate developer, has been appointed to the New York Racing Association’s board of directors to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of former chairman and member Michael Del Giudice.

Zaro is the chair of the banking and real estate services department at the law firm Sills Cummis & Gross, and is, according to a release distributed by NYRA, “actively involved in the real estate industry” in both New York and New Jersey. He is a co-owner of the gelding Baby Yoda, who won an allowance race last year at Saratoga with a 114 Beyer Speed Figure, the highest recorded in New York last year.

NYRA is considering massive redevelopment programs at both Belmont Park on Long Island and Aqueduct Racetrack in Queens. In addition, the association is continually involved in renovation projects at Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York. NYRA’s properties are owned by the state and the tracks are operated by NYRA under a franchise agreement.

Del Giudice retired in November of last year after 18 years on the board and four years as its chairman. The appointment of Zaro is “effective immediately,” NYRA said in a release.

“NYRA is the premier racing circuit in the country because this board and the management team have embraced change and prioritized integrity and safety,” Zaro said in the release. “The future of New York racing is bright.”

Zaro was appointed by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul. Under legislation passed in 2017, New York’s governor controls two appointments to the NYRA board, which has 17 seats.

“For generations, New Yorkers have flocked to venues like Saratoga Race Course and Belmont Park to witness world-class Thoroughbred racing and connect with family and friends,” Gov. Hochul said in a release. “The sport drives a far-reaching industry responsible for an enormous number of good jobs and billions in annual economic impact. I am pleased to appoint Jerry to this important role to help ensure continued success for NYRA and the sport.”

NYRA also said that board member Joseph Spinelli has left the board. Spinelli’s seat is controlled by NYRA. Another seat controlled by the New York State Assembly is empty.