Tampa Bay Downs Margo Flynn retires after 30-year career

Margo Flynn, who shaped Tampa Bay Downs' identity, growth and connection to the racing community across a 30-year career, will retire as vice president of marketing and publicity and continue with the track as a consultant.

Flynn built a reputation for adaptability and instinct, from training horses to working on the front side. Her move into broadcasting came unexpectedly as she worked 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."

Flynn arrived at Tampa Bay Downs in 1995 for what she expected to be a seasonal role and found a blank slate. "But that gave me the opportunity to build something," she said. That something became a career spanning three decades, during which Flynn grew 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 also helped develop popular spaces such as Legends Bar, Champions Row, the Veranda, the Garden Suite and the Skye Terrace Dining Room, and she guided broader renovations that modernized the facility. Beyond infrastructure, Flynn helped define the track's personality, whether through community outreach, media presence or lighter moments such as hosting a cooking show on dark days.

One moment stood out among her milestones. "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."

Flynn's leadership stood out during Tampa Bay Downs' 100th anniversary celebration, a multiyear 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 for what she helped build. "All in all, it's been a fun ride," she said. "I've enjoyed my time here. There are no regrets."

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 gratitude to Flynn for three decades of dedication, vision and leadership, and looks forward to her continued involvement as a consultant.