Ortiz John’s journey into the heart of horse racing began unconventionally, not in the saddle, but amidst the smoky aromas of a birthday barbecue. It was at his father’s birthday celebration, surrounded by trainers, jockeys, and agents, that a casual question from renowned trainer Bill Mott altered the course of young Ortiz’s summer and, ultimately, his career. “What are you doing this summer? Why don’t you come and work for me?” Mott inquired, planting a seed that would blossom into a lifelong passion.
At just fifteen, Ortiz John seized the opportunity, spending his summer and weekends walking hots for Mott. This immersive experience within the racetrack barns ignited a deep love for the racing world, coupled with “an itch to ride horses like my dad.” Crucially, it was Bill Mott who facilitated Ortiz’s first experience on a racehorse, an event that solidified his burgeoning aspirations. Even in these early days, Ortiz John displayed a keen interest in the multifaceted operations of a racing barn. He wasn’t content just to ride; he wanted to understand the intricate details of stable management, recognizing this knowledge as foundational for his future ambitions as a trainer. While not directly involved in grooming, Ortiz John engaged with the grooms, absorbing their insights and broadening his understanding of horse care. This early drive underscores his long-term vision: “I was always interested in becoming a trainer. Even if I was a jockey, I knew it wouldn’t be long term because of my weight.”
Acknowledging the physical demands and weight restrictions inherent in a jockey’s career, Ortiz John proactively considered alternative paths. He dedicated a year to trade school, training to become an auto mechanic, a practical “plan B.” However, upon completing his training, job opportunities proved scarce. Coincidentally, his family relocated to Ocala, Florida, presenting Ortiz John with a pivotal moment. Remaining in New York and facing limited prospects as a mechanic, he received a directive from his father, rich with racing heritage: “I left the helmet. I left some boots and the vest. Put ‘em on and go freelance. If you want to stay in New York, find your way.” This paternal encouragement spurred Ortiz John back to the track. His initial foray into freelance riding led him to Dominic Galluscio, who became instrumental in teaching him the art of breezing horses, providing him with invaluable early opportunities to hone his skills.
When Bill Mott returned to New York after a winter season in Florida in 2006, Ortiz John rejoined his stable, this time as a foreman and exercise rider. This second stint under Mott proved profoundly educational. “I loved working for him. I learned horsemanship, which is rare nowadays,” Ortiz John reflects, emphasizing the depth of knowledge he gained. While recognizing Mott’s significant influence, Ortiz John credits Leana Willaford, Mott’s former assistant trainer, as the most impactful mentor in his formative years. “Being under Leana, I learned all the tricks of the trade. I still use techniques and knowledge she gave me, and I’m forever grateful for that.” Willaford’s guidance provided Ortiz John with a practical and nuanced understanding of training practices that continues to shape his approach.
In 2008, seeking further experience and broadening his horizons, Ortiz John transitioned to working for Graham Motion, dividing his time between Palm Meadows in Florida and Fair Hills in Maryland. Under the tutelage of the British trainer, who also granted him his assistant’s license, Ortiz John gained critical insights into barn management and organization. “From Motion,” he explains, “I learned organization…what it takes to run a barn.” Motion’s meticulous approach to stable operations, characterized by clearly defined tasks and systematic charting, impressed Ortiz John. “Everybody had a task, and it was all charted. How he ran his barn was like a business. Everything I do is on the computer, on a chart.” This period instilled in him the importance of structured and efficient management within a racing stable.
Following his time with Motion, Ortiz John expanded his experience by working as an assistant for Kellyn Gorder. Reflecting on his diverse experiences, Ortiz John acknowledges the invaluable lessons learned from each trainer. “I’ve worked for some really great trainers—Bill Mott and Graham Motion—but working for Kellyn was the best experience in my lifetime.” This culmination of experiences, from the initial spark ignited by Bill Mott to the refined organizational skills learned from Graham Motion and the ultimate impactful experience with Kellyn Gorder, collectively forged the foundation for Ortiz John’s burgeoning career in horse racing.
