Popular horse racing jockey John Velazquez grabbed his 650th victory at Saratoga Race Course September 1st, riding the Todd Pletcher-trained Sweet Cat for the win in the day's 11th race. Crossing the finish line first at the Spa, Velazquez overtook retired jockey Angel Cordero, Jr., for second place in wins at the Saratoga Springs, New York, track.
With 650 Saratoga victories, Velazquez now trails the legendary Jerry Bailey, who holds top honors with 693 wins at the Spa.
Cordero, who happens to be Velazquez’ agent, celebrated in the winner’s circle with his client.
Velazquez reached the Spa milestone less than three months before his 40th birthday, which he will celebrate in November 2011. The Puerto Rican-born jockey leads the current standings for Saratoga’s meet, which concludes on September 5th. Velazquez has won 49 races so far in the meet.
Also this year, Velazquez won his first Kentucky Derby, riding Animal Kingdom after his intended mount, Uncle Mo, was scratched from the Run for the Roses.
The top five jockeys in Saratoga’s history are:
- 693 wins – Jerry Bailey
- 650 wins – John Velazquez
- 649 wins – Angel Cordero, Jr.
- 423 wins – Edgar Prado
- 399 wins – Pat Day
Related Item/s:
Comments