A series has been initiated by the racing organization to honor females involved in the sport, examine the difficulties they encounter in what has historically been a male-dominated field, and showcase their accomplishments.
Leadership is most tested by times of difficulty. Cate Masterson, who leads the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, passes with flying colors.
Masterson displayed resilience when the global health crisis essentially paralyzed the world in 2020, and again following the passing of board chairman John Hendrickson on August 19, 2024, due to cardiac arrest. Hendrickson had spearheaded the museum’s renovation and a fundraising effort aiming to gather $20 million.
While many transitioned to remote work during the health crisis, Masterson maintained her presence in the office daily. “I shifted into a mode of taking charge and ensuring tasks are executed effectively,” she explained.
Masterson had a conversation with Hendrickson at 11:30 a.m. on the day of his passing. Approximately two hours later, she was informed of his unexpected death. He was 59 years old.
“It came as quite a shock,” she remembered. “We promptly convened a staff meeting.”
Her message to her team, many of whom were still grappling with the effects of the health crisis?
“None of us could have foreseen this,” she stated. “Regrettably, life sometimes presents unforeseen challenges. We will persevere.”
Immediate preparations were initiated to honor Hendrickson, culminating in a significant memorial service attended by over 500 individuals two weeks following his passing.
Masterson, 45, appears unstoppable.
“Cate is exceptionally energetic. She prioritizes perfection and the museum’s best interests above all else,” noted Charlotte Weber, who succeeded Hendrickson as board chair. “She embraces both demanding work and hands-on involvement.”
Masterson’s dedication to the sport is evident in her daily morning walks.
“There’s truly nothing like the atmosphere behind the scenes at Saratoga in the mornings,” she remarked. “It’s an ideal spot for a walk, engaging in conversations, enjoying coffee, and staying informed about current happenings.”
Anyone accompanying her to Saratoga Race Course should anticipate a lengthy visit. “She knows everyone there, from maintenance staff to officials. She is friends with them all,” shared Michael Denio, her partner of many years. “It’s remarkable to observe.”
Masterson is enjoying her 27th consecutive summer season. She was raised in Troy, N.Y., a short distance from Saratoga Race Course. For her 16th birthday, she wished to attend the races for the first time at the renowned upstate New York location. Her parents, Paul and Ann, happily fulfilled her wish.
Masterson obtained a business marketing degree with a communications minor from Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. As expected, she applied her academic knowledge to the sport.
She spent 10 years at Ed Lewi Associates, working closely with the New York Racing Association, before gaining valuable experience behind the scenes as the office manager for trainer Kiaran McLaughlin for eight years.
At Hendrickson’s recommendation, she joined the museum as the director of development in 2016 and was promoted to director three years later.
“She’s undoubtedly the ideal candidate, and I believe the timing has worked out favorably for both parties,” Weber commented. “I honestly felt the museum had become somewhat stagnant. It was managed in a somewhat exclusive manner. I don’t think it had vibrancy, and Cate has revitalized it.”
The institution is now far from stagnant.
“Previously, visitors felt that a single visit was sufficient,” Masterson observed. “We aim for horse enthusiasts to return each year, so we began updating exhibits annually.”
She is continuously seeking innovative approaches to progress. “I appreciate our constant focus on the future. We have exhibits planned through 2027,” she stated. “We’re consistently striving to advance our mission and expand our educational initiatives.”
As the museum commemorates its 75th anniversary, highlights in July included a children’s program in the HorsePlay Gallery, the inaugural Winner’s Circle Summer Camp, and a Racing and Rose fashion event.
Former Hall of Fame jockey Angel Cordero, Jr., is scheduled to guide a museum tour on August 6. Legendary track announcer Tom Durkin delights visitors every Thursday as they explore an exceptional collection dating back to the 17th century.
Curious about the sensation of riding in a race? There is a racing simulator available. Interested in learning more about the Hall of Fame inductees? Watch an engaging 18-minute film – “What it Takes: Journey to the Hall of Fame.” All Hall of Fame plaques are interactive.
Masterson described the museum as a place that, “It must be dynamic, evolving, and engaging. We like to say our age demographic ranges from infants to nonagenarians.”
Masterson approaches everything with enthusiasm, even her culinary endeavors. She recently prepared chicken cutlet parmigiana, ensuring she had enough to share with family, colleagues, and a neighbor with health concerns.
“Whenever she prepares a large meal,” Denio noted, “he receives a portion.”
