**Please see the attached photo of apprentice jockey Irad Ortiz, Jr. Credit
Friday, January 20, 2012
Contact: Jon Forbes
NYRA APPRENTICE JOCKEY PROFILE: IRAD ORTIZ, JR.
Originally from Trujillo Alto in
Irad Ortiz, Jr. began his riding career at Hipódromo Camarero on New Year’s Day, 2011, and rode there until June 19, winning 76 races from 357 mounts, good for a 28.3 winning percentage and earnings of $453,845.
Pito Rosa, a NYRA peace officer who works in the jockeys’ room at Aqueduct Racetrack,
“I looked at the tapes, and my first impression was he didn’t look like a bug boy,” said Micallef.
In June, Ortiz was off to
“I wanted to ride against the best jockeys,” said Ortiz of his decision to come to
In three full meets on the NYRA circuit, Ortiz tied for 12th at Saratoga Race Course with 11 wins, tied for sixth at
Ortiz’s ascent has not gone unnoticed by horsemen.
“He is very talented,” said Art Magnuson, assistant to trainer Kiaran McLaughlin. “I think he handles himself well. He carries himself well. I like the way he listens. I think Irad is learning every day and it’s really fun to watch. He is one of the most natural athletes I’ve seen in a long time.”
Richard Migliore, who heads NYRA’s apprentice jockey program, said Ortiz has become a formidable force as he has gained experience and poise, which will help him after he loses his apprentice allowance February 2.
“I think his potential is unlimited,” said Migliore. “He looks good on horses and has just the right balance of confidence and humility. His confidence has hit a place that has enabled him to ride at an even bigger level. We’ve really seen him blossom from a confidence standpoint.”
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