Legendary Ellis Park track super Glenn Thompson dies at 88
Ellis Park news release by Kevin Kerstein (Coady Media photo above of Glenn Thompson Appreciation Race sponsored by the Kentucky HBPA in 2016)
HENDERSON, Ky. (Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024) – The Ellis Park family is mourning the loss of Glenn Thompson, a revered member of the track maintenance team who devoted more than 70 years to the facility. Thompson passed away Saturday at age 88, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that shaped the foundation of Ellis Park’s operations.
Thompson began his career at Ellis Park at age 16, working on the maintenance crew before eventually becoming track superintendent. Known for his unwavering commitment to track safety, Thompson often started his workday as early as 2 a.m. to prepare the surface for morning training.
“I’ve always loved the sport, the horses and the people,” Thompson said in a 2019 interview. “Every day, I did my best for the horses. It was never just a job – it was a passion.”
Raised in Henderson, where the Green and Ohio Rivers meet, Thompson balanced his time between farming and his duties at Ellis Park. His dedication to the track and its community was unparalleled, and he often remarked, “Horses are all I know. That’s why I do this.”
“Glenn was the heart and soul of Ellis Park’s track maintenance for decades,” said Dan Bork, racing secretary at Ellis Park. “His dedication to the safety and care of our racing surface was unmatched. His work ethic and passion for the sport set a standard that will be felt for generations to come.”
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Tomblinson Funeral Home in Henderson, with burial to follow at Fernwood Cemetery. Visitation begins at 10 a.m.
The Thompson family’s association with Ellis Park spans generations. Glenn’s son, Clifton, also served as a track superintendent, and his grandson, Garrett, worked alongside his father and grandfather. Thompson is also survived by his daughter, Rhonda; granddaughter, Delaney; siblings Billy Thompson and Sheila Echols; and his significant other, Tracey Keller.
