Mooney, born in Toronto in 1948 as the oldest of seven children, grew up around the sport. When Delaware began its 86th live season May 24, racing fans were reminded of Mooney’s impact every time they saw a grass race. Mooney, who retired after nearly 40 years in Mid-Atlantic racing, 25 at Delaware. Louisiana Downs’ sod is called the Franks Turf, after John Franks, the leading owner at the track for 18 consecutive years and a major figure in Louisiana racing history.ĭelaware Park joined those ranks last October, by dedicating its turf course to John E. Del Mar’s turf pays tribute to actor and singer Jimmy Durante, a frequent patron of the California track in its heyday.
Saratoga’s outer turf course is named for longtime owner/breeder Paul Mellon. Racing fans may have noticed that racetracks across North America have named turf courses for notable figures.
