Paul Gately, 76, of Manasquan, NJ, passed away at home on April 19, 2020, with his loving wife, Mary Ann, by his side.
Gately was born in Newark, NJ, and grew up in his beloved Avon-By-The-Sea. He graduated from Saint Rose High School in 1961 and was known through New Jersey as an accomplished runner, as he set records in cross country and mile events. He ran in the renowned Millrose Games in Manhattan and was awarded an athletic scholarship from The University of Notre Dame for track. He was inducted into the Saint Rose High School Hall of Fame for his outstanding accomplishments as a high school runner.
Gately was able to segue his own love for running to training racehorses as a successful trainer and owner of Standardbreds, racing at tracks up and down the east coast, as well as close to home at the Meadowlands Racetrack and Freehold Raceway.
Among Gately’s more well-known horses were Fantom Of The Opry and Boysrus. When Showplace Farms opened in the early 1980s, he trained for farm owner Howard Schoor. He also helped other trainers through the years, including Ed Lohmeyer and Steve Elliott.
Gately was also a daytime bartender at the popular The Clarksburg Inn. Upon his retirement from racing in early 2002, he embarked on a part-time job as a field guide at Sandy Hook.
Gately is survived by his wife of nearly 47 years, Mary Ann; sisters, Patricia and Irene Gately Fitzpatrick; mother-in-law, Ann Villa; brother-in-law, John (Sharon) Villa; and several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Grace (nee Kelly); father-in-law, John Villa Sr.; brothers-in-law, Joseph Villa and Thomas Villa; sister-in-law, Ann Villa; and cousins, Michael and Peter.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and in keeping with the current recommendations of the CDC and the Diocese of Trenton, a mass for family and friends will be held when conditions permit.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Paul Gately.
(Harnessracing.com)