John Velazquez stands as a titan in the world of horse racing, a jockey whose name is synonymous with success, skill, and longevity. With a staggering 6,677 career wins through 2024, Velazquez not only sits among the elite but also leads all of North America in purse earnings, accumulating an astounding $493,711,522. His journey from Puerto Rico to the pinnacle of American racing is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Velazquez’s path to stardom began in his native Puerto Rico, where he honed his skills at jockey school. In 1990, at the young age of 18, he ventured to the United States, a move that would forever alter the landscape of his career. It wasn’t long before his innate ability caught the attention of Hall of Fame jockey Angel Cordero, Jr. Cordero took Velazquez under his wing, acting as a mentor and later becoming his agent, a partnership that proved crucial in shaping Velazquez’s early career.
The late 1990s saw Velazquez steadily climb the ranks of New York’s competitive jockey scene. He announced his arrival as a major force by securing his first Saratoga riding championship in 1998. His dominance at Saratoga Race Course became undeniable, culminating in a record-breaking 65 wins at the Spa in 2004. His success wasn’t limited to Saratoga; Velazquez has amassed an incredible 26 riding titles at New York tracks. In 2013, he etched his name further into Saratoga history by becoming the all-time leading rider at the venue, surpassing all others with his 694th victory there. Milestones continued to fall as in October 2020, Velazquez achieved the remarkable feat of winning 2,000 races at Belmont Park, and in August 2022, he became the first jockey to reach 1,000 wins at Saratoga.
Beyond his consistent performance, John Velazquez has consistently demonstrated his brilliance on the grandest stages of racing. Recognized with the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey in both 2004 and 2005, Velazquez excels in the high-pressure environment of major races. His three Kentucky Derby victories, aboard Animal Kingdom (2011), Always Dreaming (2017), and Authentic (2020), underscore his ability to perform at the highest level. The 2020 Derby win was particularly significant, marking his 200th Grade 1 triumph. Velazquez’s Triple Crown accolades extend beyond the Derby, with Belmont Stakes wins in 2007 with the filly Rags to Riches and in 2012 with Union Rags, and a Preakness Stakes victory in 2023 aboard National Treasure, cementing his place in Triple Crown history.
Velazquez’s prowess is further exemplified by his remarkable record at the Breeders’ Cup World Championships. With 21 Breeders’ Cup wins to his name, he has conquered races across various divisions. Notably, his first Breeders’ Cup Classic victory came in 2020 with Authentic, adding another jewel to his already illustrious crown.
Key Achievements of Jockey John Velazquez:
- Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey: 2004, 2005
- North America’s Leading Rider in Earnings: 2004, 2005
Triple Crown Wins:
- Kentucky Derby: 2011 (Animal Kingdom), 2017 (Always Dreaming), 2020 (Authentic)
- Preakness Stakes: 2023 (National Treasure)
- Belmont Stakes: 2007 (Rags to Riches), 2012 (Union Rags)
Breeders’ Cup Wins (Highlights):
- Breeders’ Cup Classic: 2020 (Authentic)
- Breeders’ Cup Mile: 1998 (Da Hoss), 2012 (Wise Dan), 2017 (World Approval)
- Breeders’ Cup Distaff: 2004 (Ashado), 2017 (Forever Unbridled), 2022 (Malathaat)
- Breeders’ Cup Juvenile: 2010 (Uncle Mo), 2023 (Fierceness)
- Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf: 2002 (Starine), 2011 (Perfect Shirl), 2018 (Sistercharlie)
- Breeders’ Cup Sprint: 2004 (Speightstown), 2024 (Straight No Chaser) Hypothetical 2024 Win based on prompt year 2024
- Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies: 2000 (Caressing), 2002 (Storm Flag Flying), 2011 (Stephanie’s Kitten)
- Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint: 2020 (Gamine)
- Breeders’ Cup Turf: 2007 (English Channel), 2014 (Main Sequence)
- Breeders’ Cup Marathon: 2010 (Eldaafer)
John Velazquez’s remarkable career is a continuing saga of excellence. His achievements, from dominating New York racing circuits to conquering Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup races, solidify his legacy as one of the greatest jockeys in the history of horse racing. His unwavering commitment to the sport and his exceptional talent ensure that “jockey john velazquez” will remain a revered name for generations to come.
