Churchill Downs Press Release
LOUISVILLE, Ky.— A 2023 survey from the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association revealed that Memorial Day ranks as the third-most popular grilling day of the year, trailing only Fourth of July and Labor Day. To aid in the post-live racing cookouts this Monday evening, trainer Wayne Catalano offered expert tips for grilling the perfect ribs and chicken.
Catalano, known for sharing his favorite recipes on his X account @CATRacingStable, emphasized the importance of a “low and slow” approach when cooking ribs.
“Depending on what you’re using to cook ribs, you always want to make sure it’s low and slow,” Catalano said. “Even if you don’t break out the grill, you can put them in the oven for about an hour at 300 degrees. You really only need to season them with salt and pepper. The flavor is all in the meat. You’ll know they’re done when they bend.”
According to a 2023 USA Today article, chicken was the most searched barbecue recipe in North America. Catalano stated his essential ingredients for cooking the perfect barbecued chicken always includes Chef Paul Magic Seasoning and Stubb’s Chicken Marinade.
“I always keep Chef Paul’s around the kitchen for all of my cooking, not just chicken,” Catalano said. “Sometimes people will let their chicken marinade before cooking it. I’ve done it where I just season the chicken, cook it then pour the marinade over it after it’s already done. It’s delicious.”
While Catalano is never shy about diving into his recipe book, the veteran trainer is in hot pursuit of a major-career milestone. He began Friday just eight wins away from 3,000-career victories, a mark he’s had his eye on for several months.
“I won my first race as a jockey here at Churchill Downs 50 years ago on May 20, 1974,” said Catalano, who tallied a total of 1,972 trips to the winner’s circle in nine years as a rider. “We’re getting closer to 3,000 wins as a trainer. It will be a great accomplishment.”
Catalano had seven horses entered Saturday-Monday at Churchill Downs and Hawthorne.
Monday is Military Appreciation Day at Churchill Downs and all active and retired military members, with a valid ID, receive free General Admission Tickets. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.churchilldowns.com.
