Former Jockey and Jockeys' Guild Official Nick Jemas Dead

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Nick Jemas, former jockey and Jockeys' Guild executive director, died April 14 at the age of 86. Jemas rode from 1940 to 1960 and won about 800 races. He captured the 1943 Arlington Lassie on Horse of the Year Twilight Tear, and also rode the great champion Stymie. Jemas won the first race at the new Monmouth Park Racetrack in 1946.

Following his riding career, Jemas became the eastern manager for the Jockeys' Guild, and in 1967 he was named executive director of the organization, a post he held until his retirement in 1986.

Jemas' son, James, is the vice president of finance for the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, owners of both Monmouth Park and Meadowlands.

Respects may be paid Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church, 615 Mercer St., Cherry Hill, N.J. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the St. Thomas Greek Orthodox Church Home for the Aged at the same address.

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