Horseman and racing official Placido ‘Pat’ Anthony Salerno, 81, of Flemington, N.J., passed away on Friday, August 26, surrounded by his family.
He was the husband of Betty (Coopersmith) Salerno. They would have celebrated 61 years of marriage in October.
Born February 28, 1935, in Easton, Pa., he was the son of Anthony and Margaret (Vacaro) Salerno. He graduated from Easton High School in 1953. He was an accomplished musician who belonged to several bands that played throughout New York and the Poconos. In 1958, his band, the Bobby Warren 5, recorded its hit single ‘Nightbeat.’
Salerno attended Trenton State College and received his teaching degree. He became director of the music department at St. Anthony's High School. There he developed one of the finest music programs in the state, and many of his students went on to be successful professional musicians.
He had a deep love for horses and racing. In the summer months, when school was out, he became involved in pony races at Spruce Run Park in Flemington, N.J. After several summers of pony races, he took the next step and bought his first racehorse, and what started out as a hobby quickly became a career. In 1974, he gave up teaching and with the help of his sons, he opened Salerno Stables, which went on to be a successful career for him and his sons.
In 1985, Salerno became the executive director of the Pennsylvania Harness Horsemen's Association and later served as the executive director of the Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey. He worked tirelessly for the benefit of all involved in the sport that he loved.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Pat Salerno.
(USTA)