Picture: Pat Valenzuela/Fb
Pat ValenzuelaAfter returning to using in Arizona this spring and profitable 4 races, he’s heading east with the objective of returning to top-level racing in Kentucky.
“I am doing this as a result of, initially, I really like Kentucky, and now it is Derby time,” Valenzuela stated in a cellphone interview Friday afternoon. horse racing nation. “I am hoping to meet up with some previous buddies that I have not ridden with in years. It’s going to be nice to see everybody and I would have the ability to journey some races right here. If issues go properly, I is likely to be right here all summer season.”
Valenzuela, 63, stated he’ll attempt to make new acquaintances and construct connections behind Churchill Downs Monday morning. He stated he nonetheless wants to use for a jockey’s license with the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Company. He hoped that being licensed in Arizona would enable him to be formally accepted in Kentucky.
After greater than 9 years between races, Valenzuela resumed his profession on March thirtieth at Turf Paradise. Her first win since her return was on April 1st towards a 3-year-old filly. It positively appears possible I received my first race for $17,000.
“My grandsons, ages 8 and 11, who had by no means seen me journey of their lives, got here from Durango, Colorado to shock me,” he stated. “The primary horse to journey once they arrive to shock me wins. Is that loopy?”
Valenzuela, winner of the 1989 Kentucky Derby and Preakness aboard Sunday Silence, has not ridden in Kentucky for the reason that 2011 Breeders’ Cup at Churchill Downs.
Valenzuela received 29 wins, 4 losses, 5 attracts and three losses at Turf Paradise this spring, incomes $54,020 in prize cash.
