Hector Garcia

Hector Garcia passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born in Havana, Cuba, in June of 1941, Hector made the journey to the United States in 1962, fleeing communism under Fidel Castro’s rule. In the United States, he built a life rooted in love of family and dedication to the sport of kings.

His love of racehorses began when he was a child in Cuba, where he grew up near the local racetrack Oriental Park. A gifted and compassionate horseman, Hector spent his life as a racehorse trainer, traveling up and down the East Coast with an unmatched work ethic and love for the sport. Under the tutelage of excellent horsemen such as Oscar Barrera and Jose Martinez, Hector gained the knowledge and ability to become an accomplished horseman himself. He was especially known for his ability to see potential where others saw limitation. His legacy lives on in the countless horses he trained and the many people in the racing world who came to know and respect him. Hector retired from his 60 years of racing with goodbyes and a kind farewell from Micheal Trombetta’s racing stable in 2024.

Hector’s other love was for his beloved Red Sox and the sport of baseball. He especially loved attending games with his son, watching the minors and collecting cards.

His last year was spent in Indiana in the comfort of his family.  He is survived by his children Michael Garcia, Mercedes Garcia, Lisa Plamondon, and Lori Santiago, along with several grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Mayra Garcia and Dulce Garcia, and one brother, Juan Jose Garcia. He is predeceased by his son, Steven Elderkin.

Hector’s spirit, resilience, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered always.