If you follow horse racing, you know the name Irad Ortiz Jr.—a jockey whose dominance, skill, and relentless drive have made him one of the most celebrated figures in the sport. As of December 2024, Ortiz Jr. continues to lead the charge, showcasing why he’s considered one of the best jockeys of his generation.

With over 309 wins in 2024, more than $32 million in earnings this year, and a career total of over 4,000 victories, Irad Ortiz Jr. isn’t just riding horses—he’s writing history. Whether it’s claiming high-profile stakes races, setting records, or simply grinding out wins at every track he visits, Ortiz Jr.’s story is one of passion, hard work, and exceptional talent. Let’s take a deeper dive into the journey, triumphs, and current standing of this remarkable athlete.

A Legacy in the Making: Irad’s Journey

Born on August 11, 1992, in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, Irad Ortiz Jr. was destined for horse racing greatness. His family’s ties to the sport run deep. Both his grandfather and uncle were jockeys, and his younger brother, José Ortiz, is also a celebrated rider. Together, the Ortiz brothers have risen to become two of the most recognized names in horse racing, often battling it out in the biggest races across the U.S.

Irad began honing his craft at Escuela Vocacional Hípica, a vocational school in Puerto Rico dedicated to training jockeys. At just 16 years old, he won his first race aboard Wild Logic at Hipódromo Camarero in January 2011. Seeking more opportunities, Ortiz made his way to the United States later that year. His first U.S. win came at Belmont Park in June 2011—a moment that marked the beginning of an extraordinary career.

The Rise of a Champion

By 2012, Ortiz Jr. was already making waves. He won the Coaching Club American Oaks and the Alabama Stakes, two prestigious Grade 1 races that put him on the map. He followed those wins with breakout performances in New York’s competitive racing scene, earning riding titles at Belmont Park, Aqueduct, and Saratoga. These wins weren’t just luck—they were proof of his growing mastery.

Over the years, Ortiz has become known for his aggressive, tactical riding style. Whether it’s finding the perfect trip in tight spaces or outmaneuvering competitors in the final stretch, Irad’s ability to read races has set him apart. His talent has not gone unnoticed, as he has earned multiple Eclipse Awards for Outstanding Jockey, including consecutive honors in 2018 and 2019.

Breaking Records and Winning Big

Perhaps one of Ortiz Jr.’s most defining moments came in 2019, when he set a single-year earnings record for North American jockeys, amassing over $34 million. That year, he dominated the Breeders’ Cup, winning multiple races, including the $6 million Classic aboard Vino Rosso and the $4 million Turf on Bricks and Mortar, who would go on to win Horse of the Year honors.

In total, Ortiz Jr. has amassed 19 Breeders’ Cup wins—a staggering accomplishment that cements his place among the sport’s all-time greats. His ability to excel in the highest-stakes races, whether on turf or dirt, makes him one of the most versatile jockeys in the business.

Another career highlight came with his two wins in the Belmont Stakes, first in 2016 aboard Creator and again in 2022 on Mo Donegal. Both victories showcased his skill in handling the grueling 1.5-mile race, a true test of a jockey’s patience and decision-making.

2024: A Record-Breaking Year

Fast forward to 2024, and Ortiz is still at the top of his game. This year, he surpassed 4,000 career wins, becoming just the 85th jockey in history to reach that milestone. He achieved this feat in October at Keeneland aboard Full Moon Madness, a testament to his consistency and longevity in a demanding sport.

His stats this season are nothing short of remarkable:

• Starts: 1,485

• Wins: 309

• Second-place finishes: 255

• Third-place finishes: 200

• Earnings: Over $32 million

These numbers lead the national standings, with no sign of him slowing down. Ortiz’s dominance is not just about winning races; it’s about doing so consistently at every level, from maiden claimers to Grade 1 stakes.

The Ortiz Style

Irad Ortiz Jr. is known for his fearless, strategic riding style. He thrives in high-pressure situations and is especially skilled at positioning his horses perfectly for a late charge. This ability to navigate tight spaces and find the ideal path often makes the difference between victory and defeat.

But his success isn’t just about instincts—it’s also about preparation. Ortiz is known for his work ethic, often riding in multiple races across different tracks in a single day. His dedication to fitness and focus ensures he’s always ready to perform at the highest level.

Family Rivalry: Irad and José Ortiz

One of the most compelling storylines in horse racing is the friendly rivalry between Irad and his younger brother, José Ortiz. Both have achieved incredible success, and their sibling rivalry has added an extra layer of excitement to many races. While José won the Eclipse Award in 2017, Irad has consistently outperformed his brother in terms of total wins and earnings. Despite their competition on the track, the brothers share a close bond and often credit each other for pushing their careers forward.

Best Horses and Career Partnerships

Throughout his career, Ortiz has partnered with some of the best horses in recent memory. Notable names include:

• Bricks and Mortar: Winner of the 2019 Breeders’ Cup Turf and Horse of the Year.

• Vino Rosso: Winner of the 2019 Breeders’ Cup Classic.

• Mo Donegal: 2022 Belmont Stakes champion.

• Golden Pal: A sprinting superstar with multiple Breeders’ Cup wins.

These partnerships have been instrumental in Ortiz’s success, as he has a knack for bringing out the best in his mounts, regardless of their racing style or surface preference.

What Sets Irad Apart

So what makes Irad Ortiz Jr. such a standout? For one, his ability to adapt. Whether he’s riding a speed horse or a closer, on turf or dirt, Ortiz finds a way to maximize his horse’s potential. His understanding of pace, track conditions, and competition allows him to make split-second decisions that often lead to victory.

Moreover, Ortiz’s mental toughness is unparalleled. Horse racing is as much a psychological game as it is physical, and Irad’s ability to stay calm under pressure has been a key factor in his success.

A Legacy in Progress

As we look to the future, Irad Ortiz Jr.’s legacy is still being written. At just 32 years old, he has plenty of years left in the saddle. His continued dominance, work ethic, and hunger for success suggest that he could break even more records in the years to come.

Fans and analysts alike are already speculating about where Ortiz will rank among the all-time greats when his career is over. With every win, every record, and every big-race triumph, he solidifies his place in horse racing history.

Off the Track

Despite his fame, Ortiz remains humble and grounded. He often credits his family for his success, particularly his brother and parents, who have supported him throughout his journey. Ortiz is also a fan favorite for his approachable demeanor and willingness to engage with fans and the racing community.

The Reign Continues

Irad Ortiz Jr. is more than just a jockey—he’s a phenomenon. From his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to his record-breaking achievements on the biggest stages in horse racing, Ortiz’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and pure talent.

With every ride, he adds another chapter to his remarkable career. And as of now, there’s no telling how high his star will rise. One thing is certain: when Irad Ortiz Jr. is in the saddle, magic happens.

If you’re a fan of horse racing, keep watching. The reign of Irad Ortiz Jr. is far from over.

Sources Summary

1. Equibase Profile of Irad Ortiz Jr.

• Provides detailed statistics about Irad Ortiz Jr.’s career, including starts, wins, earnings, and his 2024 record.

• Equibase: Irad Ortiz Jr. Profile

2. Wikipedia Entry

• Offers an overview of Irad’s background, career milestones, and significant achievements like the Belmont Stakes and Breeders’ Cup wins.

• Wikipedia: Irad Ortiz Jr.

3. Past The Wire

• Covers Irad Ortiz Jr.’s milestone of reaching 4,000 career wins and provides insights into his recent successes.

• Past The Wire: Irad Ortiz Jr. 4,000th Win

4. America’s Best Racing

• Highlights Irad’s major career accomplishments, including his partnership with notable horses like Bricks and Mortar and Vino Rosso.

• America’s Best Racing: Irad Ortiz Jr.

5. Paulick Report

• Discusses Irad’s pursuit of records and his dominance at Gulfstream Park and other major circuits.

• Paulick Report: Irad Ortiz Jr. Gulfstream Profile