Gerardo Amado

Mr. Gerardo Amado, a third-generation horseman native to Venezuela, loves his horses ‘as his kids.’ After picking up intimate knowledge and a love for racehorses from his grandfather (a breeder) and father (a trainer/breeder) through experience on their Venezuelan farm, Mr. Amado relocated to South Florida.

Mr. Amado arrived in the US with almost nothing; it was his focus, drive, and commitment that allowed him to succeed. His passion for horse-racing remained at the forefront of his mind, but understanding that these majestic creatures do not comprehend “working for money,” he refused to enter the racehorse business until independently successful enough not to depend on winnings to cover expenses. He has always believed in the importance of providing horses with the food, rehab, and rest necessary to lead happy, healthy lives; recently, he refused to put down an injured racehorse, Velocissima, against veterinarian recommendations–a beautiful horse who has now made a miraculous recovery and returned to racing.

After the passing of his father-in-law, Mr. Amado realized it was time to follow his father’s lead and fulfill his dream of training again. Since the claiming of his first horse, Mystical Moon, two years ago, Mr. Amado has purchased/claimed 30 horses, has his own training operation in Gulfstream, and a training/breeding operation on his 40-acre horse farm in Williston, FL.

As a member of the Board of Directors, Mr. Amado’s passion for the humane treatment of horses–and his first-hand experience as a trainer and owner–will guide his efforts to expand Florida’s horse-racing industry. He feels that working to improve conditions for horses, trainers, and owners will incentivize Florida-bred operations to remain in-state, allowing FTH to take advantage of Florida’s climate by holding higher-stake races year-round. Taking these steps would support the economic, humanitarian, and promotional goals outlined in FTH’s purpose statement.

Mr. Amado’s firsthand experiences with breeding, training, and loving horses, combined with his dedication to advocating for humane treatment, will make a strong addition to the Board of Directors. As a bilingual businessman, Mr. Amado is excited to support FTH’s efforts to expand outreach throughout the state of Florida.

Mr. Amado presently lives in Pembroke Pines, FL with his wife, two sons, two nephews, two nieces, and four rescue dogs. He runs Ironclad Farm in Williston, FL, EAC Racing Stable at Gulfstream, and two successful companies in other fields.