Frank X. Pagano Sr.

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Frank X. Pagano Sr., who left us peacefully a few days ago.

A respected horseman whose career spanned more than five decades, Frank was a familiar and admired presence at Belmont Park, Aqueduct Racetrack, and especially Saratoga Race Course. Born and raised in New York and a graduate of St. John’s University, he dedicated his life to thoroughbred racing as a trainer, owner, jockey agent, and racing manager, with a career that took him across the United States, Ireland, France, and beyond.

He worked alongside legendary horsemen Angel Penna and Howard “Buddy” Jacobson, forming lifelong friendships and earning the respect of the racing community. His career connected him to the sport’s highest levels, including the Triple Crown races, the Travers Stakes, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and the King George VI Stakes. Even in retirement, his passion never faded—he purchased Grey Swallow for a friend, who went on to become an Irish Champion and win the Irish Derby.

Frank was also appointed by Governor Mario M. Cuomo to the New York Thoroughbred Racing and Wagering Committee, where he served as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Breeding.

Above all, Frank was a devoted family man. He was the beloved husband to the late Doris Pagano and the father of their nine children, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, great, great grandfather. In his later years, he enjoyed living in the south of France alongside his wife, Judy. His love of racing lives on through his family, including four of his six sons who became licensed horse trainers.

Frank will be remembered for his knowledge, his larger-than-life presence, and the countless relationships he built throughout his life.

If you would like to honor Frank’s memory, donations can be made to Pal-O-Mine Equestrian, a horse rescue charity that reflects his lifelong love and respect for these incredible animals: https://pal-o-mine.org/donate/

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.