Ex-Trainer Tommy Pascuma Dead

Former trainer Tommy Pascuma, who in later years worked as an assistant to Hall of Fame trainer Phil Johnson, John Parisella and John Hertler, passed away Thursday after a long illness. He was 67.

Mr. Pascuma was part of a big racing family. His father, "Push 'Em Up" Tony Pascuma, was a top jockey in the Midwest, whose brothers, Warren and Jack, also rode and trained.

Mr. Pascuma's great uncle was Hall of Fame trainer Hollie Hughes.

Tommy Pascuma was also an exercise rider who first tipped trainer Billy Turner that he had a special horse in the barn. That horse turned out to be 1977 Triple Crown winner Seattle Slew.

He is survived by his son, Roy, who is an assistant starter for the New York Racing Association; a daughter, Susana, who works in the Mutuels Department; and sons Anthony, who is a Naval officer, Mark and Scott.

Viewing will be held March 2 at Krauss Funeral Home, 1097 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, N.Y.