Galluscio dead at 55

In 2006 and 2007, he trained brothers Organizer and Dr. V's Magic -- both by

Raffie's Majesty out of the Summer Squall mare Treasure Always -- to

back-to-back victories in the Empire Classic at Belmont Park.

For his career, Galluscio trained 1,047 winners, and his horses amassed total

purse earnings of $31.3 million.

Galluscio, who was easy to pick out in the winner's circle thanks to his

brightly colored sports jackets, was fondly remembered by fellow trainers

Tuesday morning as news of his passing spread at Belmont Park.

"The thing about Dominic is that not only was he a colorful character and a

great horseman, he was a highly intelligent man who always wanted to improve the

backstretch, improve racing, and improve the sport," trainer Rick Schosberg

said. "We lost a great man."

"He was a great friend and a great horseman," trainer Bobby Barbara said. "A

real gentlemen. I've known him for thirty years and I know everyone will miss

him."

Galluscio is survived by a daughter, Dominique Marie Galluscio, brothers

Robert, Raymond, Joseph and Gerard, sisters Marie Britt and Denise Cote, and

many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at Park Funeral Chapel, 2175 Jericho Turnpike, Garden City

Park, from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 21, with religious services offered

Saturday at 11 a.m. Burial will be at the First Reformed Church in Germantown,

New York on Sunday.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Dominic Galluscio to

the Backstretch Employee Service Team (B.E.S.T.) at Belmont Park, 2150 Hempstead

Turnpike, Cottage 28B, Elmont, N.Y. 11003.