Andy Belfiore will be returning as the New York Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association’s executive director, effective Jan. 7, the organization announced on Jan. 2.

“Andy has a wealth of experience in all facets of the racing industry,” said newly elected NYTHA President Tina Bond. “In addition to her knowledge base, Andy’s devotion to equine welfare and aftercare are especially crucial in this period of our sport. We are very pleased that she will be rejoining the NYTHA team.”

Belfiore started her career in racing on the backstretch at Belmont Park, working as a hotwalker, groom and exercise rider, before joining the Rick Violette stable as assistant trainer. After six years as Violette’s assistant, she moved to the frontside at the track, and spent five years in the communications and marketing departments at the New York Racing Association.

Belfiore left NYRA in 1993 to take the post as editor in chief at the Thoroughbred Daily News. During her tenure, the TDN grew from a four-page publication with just a few hundred subscribers to a leader in the Thoroughbred industry. Named Director of Communications for NYTHA in December, 2011, and Executive Director in September, 2015, she was instrumental in the creation of the TAKE2 and TAKE THE LEAD Programs.

She returns to New York after serving as Executive Director of the Florida Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association for two years.

“This is an exciting time to be a part of the racing industry in New York,” said Belfiore. “I thank the NYTHA Board and President Tina Bond for the opportunity, and I am looking forward to working with such a great team.”