Anthony Alonso
in website photo

 I knew the artist Tony Alonso had been sick for a long time, but it was still a jolt to read about his death in Michael Veitch’s column in Sunday’s Saratogian.

Veitch did a fine job describing this gentle, sincere man whose legacy was his “realistic portrayal of people, places and horses” at all the major racetracks in North America, including Saratoga.

"Backstretch Morning" is my personal
favorite Alonso painting. http://www.alonsostudio.com/

“If you want to feel a warm misty morning at Saratoga,” Veitch wrote, “or a winter walk back to the barn at Belmont Park, see Alonso.”

I know the feeling. Years ago I purchased a numbered print titled “Backstretch Morning” from the show of his work that Alonso had for years at the Gideon Putnam Hotel. It hangs where I can enjoy it often, in our cozy front living room. I love its peaceful beauty.

My husband and I met Tony and his lovely wife, Mary, during their frequent Saratoga stays through my retired colleague Jeannette Jordan and her husband, Augie. The Jordans wintered for quite a while not far from the Alonsos’ place in Florida, and the four had become friends. I count myself among the lucky to have known the Alonsos, even a little.