Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino announced Nov. 18 that Ron Nicoletti and Jessica Pacheco will serve as hosts and analysts for the 2011 meet beginning Jan. 5.
In addition to handicapping Gulfstream’s live races, Nicoletti and Pacheco will host “Gulfstream Today” before every live program and will host a special “Gulfstream Saturday” seminar with a variety of guests. Both will also contribute to Gulfstream’s web site and social media platforms.
“We’re very excited to provide our fans two of the most respected analysts in the country in Ron and Jessica for what will be one of Gulfstream’s most exciting and historic race meets,” said Gulfstream president and general manager Steve Calabro in a release. “Not only are Ron and Jessica known for their insightful handicapping, but they both have vibrant personalities and are well liked by fans locally and nationally.”
Pacheco, a native of El Paso, Texas who got her start in 2006 at Louisiana Downs, worked the previous four winters at Fair Grounds and is racing analyst and paddock host at Arlington Park. She also worked for NBC Sports on this year’s coverage of the Wood Memorial and ESPN at the 2008 Breeders’ Cup.
“I was watching the Breeders’ Cup and seeing winners like Uncle Mo, Awesome Feather, and More Than Real and thinking to myself, ‘He’ll be there, and she’ll be there, and she’ll be there,’ ” Pacheco said in a statement. “I’m so glad to be part of Gulfstream’s meet.”
Nicoletti, a native of Corona, N.Y., worked 19 years as Gulfstream’s analyst and handicapper. He also worked as television host at Hialeah Park and Calder Race Course and had South Florida’s only thoroughbred racing radio show. Nicoletti took time off last year to work on a number of acting projects, including several episodes of USA Network’s “Burn Notice” and the upcoming movie, “The Killing of a Japanese Bookie.”
“I’m extremely happy about returning to Gulfstream Park,” Nicoletti said. “With the increase in purses to the 3-year-olds programs and the unique bonuses being offered, Gulfstream’s winter meet is sure to be memorable.”