He’s an American Hall of Fame jockey, widely celebrated for his remarkable career that saw him secure 5,893 wins—landing him 15th on the all-time winners list at the time of his retirement. Now, when we talk about his early days, it wasn’t all smooth sailing right from the start. His first ride was on a horse named Pegged Rate, but unfortunately, they ran off the board, missing any kind of placement. But here’s the thing—he didn’t let that setback define him. The very next day, he switched mounts, and this time, riding Fetch, he notched his very first career victory in November 1974. That win marked the beginning of what would become an extraordinary journey. He was born in Dallas, Texas, and over the years, he built a legacy that many aspiring jockeys look up to. Yeah, his name truly became synonymous with grit, determination, and excellence in American horse racing.
In his 2005 book Against the Odds: Riding for My Life, he opened up about the challenges he faced, sharing that he had battled alcoholism early on in his career. He spoke candidly about those difficult years, reflecting on how tough it was to stay on track while dealing with personal struggles. He didn’t shy away from the truth, and through his story, he showed just how much he had overcome. He made it clear that recovery wasn’t easy, but it was a turning point that helped shape the man he became. He emphasized the importance of honesty and resilience, and he hoped his experience could inspire others facing similar battles. He truly believed that sharing his journey was part of healing.