Birthplace: Rochester, NY

Residence: Brooksville, FL

Family: Wife, four daughters, including twins

First Winner: TNT’s wish

Tampa Trainer: Carl J. Cooper

Al Alesso’s interest in horses stemmed from his daughters, who showed Arabians as children. One of his daughters became a racehorse trainer at Finger Lakes, and as a result Alesso began his career with Thoroughbreds.  His first horse, named TNT’s Wish, went on to become Alesso’s first winner.   Alesso says that he doesn’t have a stand-out favorite moment from Tampa Bay Downs: “My favorite moment is winning any race! That’s always important.”  He says that horse racing is, “a rewarding hobby for me.  I really enjoy the hard work that comes with it, and I’ve had a successful year this year.”