Tampa Bay Downs Announces Retirement of Margo Flynn, Vice President of Marketing & Publicity

Tampa Bay Downs Announces Retirement of Margo Flynn, Vice President of Marketing & Publicity

By: Elizabeth Swarzman

TAMPA, Fla. Tampa Bay Downs today announces the retirement of long-time Vice President of Marketing and Publicity Margo Flynn, whose remarkable 30-year career has helped shape the track’s identity, growth, and connection to the racing community. While Flynn will step away from her day-to-day role, she will remain involved as a consultant.
From training horses to working on the front side, Margo built a reputation for adaptability and instinct. Her transition into broadcasting came unexpectedly, while working at Rockingham Park.
“I got a call from Bill Nader, around midnight, the night before opening day and was told I’d be doing the paddock show,” she recalled. “I was thrown in at the deep end, but that was probably a good thing—I didn’t have time to be nervous.”
In 1995, Flynn arrived at Tampa Bay Downs for what was intended to be a seasonal role. What she found was a blank slate. “But that gave me the opportunity to build something.”
That “something” became a career spanning three decades, during which Flynn evolved into one of the most influential figures at the track—bridging operations. marketing, publicity, and community engagement.
Flynn played a key role in many of Tampa Bay Downs’ most significant developments, including the advancement of the turf program, the expansion of fan-facing amenities, and the launch of signature events.
“I’m very proud of the turf course—we documented it from day one to the first race,” she said. “And initiatives like Florida Cup, which brings together the track, breeders, and horsemen, are really special because of that partnership.”
She was also instrumental in developing popular spaces such as Legends Bar, Champions Row, the Veranda, the Garden Suite, and the Skye Terrace Dining Room while helping guide broader renovations that modernized the facility.
Beyond infrastructure, Flynn helped define the track’s personality—whether through community outreach, media presence, or even lighter moments like hosting a cooking show on dark days.
Among her many milestones, one moment stands out.
“I think being promoted to Vice President was the most unexpected and memorable,” Flynn said. “I didn’t realize it was happening—I was writing the press release as it was being dictated to me. It didn’t hit me until after I hung up the phone.”
Her leadership has been especially visible during Tampa Bay Downs’ 100th anniversary celebration, a multi-year effort involving historical exhibits, events, and publications.
“It’s been a huge project,” Flynn said. “There were challenges pulling everything together, but I think it came out well. It’s important to honor the history of a place like this.”
Reflecting on her career, Flynn expressed appreciation and pride in what has been built.
“All in all, it’s been a fun ride,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed my time here. There are no regrets.”
However, her connection to the sport—and to Tampa Bay Downs—remains strong.
“I don’t intend on being idle…this is just the beginning of the next chapter.”
Tampa Bay Downs extends its deepest gratitude to Margo Flynn for her decades of dedication, vision, and leadership, and looks forward to her continued involvement in a consulting role.