Horse-racing exec Marje Everett dies

Marje Everett, a longtime chairwoman of Hollywood Park, died Friday at her West Los Angeles home, track spokesman Bob Mieszerski said. She was 90.

Everett, who came from a racing family, served on the board of directors from 1972 to 1991 and as chairwoman, chief executive and president from 1985 to 1991. During her tenure, Hollywood Park hosted the Breeders' Cup twice.

Hollywood Park general manager Eual Wyatt Jr., who was racing secretary for more than 15 years under Everett, said: "She was very sincere about her love for racing. She tried to do everything in the best interest of both patrons and horsemen."

A native of New York, Everett was the daughter of Benjamin Lindheimer, who owned Arlington Park and the defunct Washington Park in Illinois. She was also a horse owner, including Stardust Mel, ridden by jockey and friend Bill Shoemaker.

Retired Hall of Fame jockey Laffit Pincay Jr. remained close friends, saying he last spoke to Everett about two weeks ago. "She always wanted the best for racing," he said.