Allison De Luca Named Tampa Racing Secretary

(from Tampa Bay Downs release)
Allison De Luca has been named director of racing and racing secretary for the 2006-2007 Thoroughbred meet at Tampa Bay Downs, general manager Peter Berube announced Aug. 25.

De Luca, 49, comes to Tampa from assistant racing secretary positions at both Churchill Downs and Keeneland. She resigned both posts recently to focus on Tampa's 94-day meet, which begins on Dec. 9 and concludes May 6, 2007.

At Tampa, she replaces John Morrissey, who resigned after the successful 2005-2006 season, which saw handle numbers increase in every betting category.

De Luca has more than 25 years experience in the Thoroughbred industry. She worked at Churchill and Keeneland in various capacities, including stakes coordinator at Keeneland since 1998. She had a 5-year run as racing secretary at Sportsman's Park in Illinois from 1987-1991.

At Sportsman's Park, she was the first female racing secretary at a recognized meet.

De Luca and Georgeanne Hale are believed to be the only two female racing secretaries currently working at major tracks. Hale works for Pimlico Race Course in Maryland.