Standardbred racehorse breeder/owner Luca Balenzano, 82, of Pompano Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 30, 2020.

Balenzano was born into a family of horsemen, and, because of fate, he himself owned many Standardbreds throughout the years. Most recently he was the breeder of millionaire Meladys Monet, along with his wife of 46 years.

Originally born in The Bronx, he settled on Long Island to be near Roosevelt Raceway where he could spend the day watching his horses jog, train and race. In 1998, Belanzano moved to south Florida where he got involved again racing at Pompano Park, but always said “it doesn’t feel the same.” Nevertheless, he raced a trotter that he eventually bred to Revenue S and along comes Meladys Monet.

Balenzano is survived by his wife, Ester, many nieces and nephews, and his closest friend, Robert 'Bobby' Hiel, whom he considered his best friend and brother.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers. His burial will be at Holy Rood Cemetery in Westbury, NY.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Luca Balenzano.

(USTA)