Jockey Jorge Chavez earned his 4,000th career win when
guiding A Rizzi Rueben (Rizzi) to a one-length victory in the 4TH race at Gulfstream Park
on Friday. The
43-year-old native of Peru entered that afternoon needing two wins to reach the
milestone and got 3,999 in the 3RD aboard Snug Harbor (Boston Harbor), who
parlayed a front-running trip into a 2 1/2-length victory at 12-1. In the
following race, Chavez stalked the pace before advancing to the lead leaving the
far turn on A Rizzi Rueben, who was off at 7-1.
“I was trying to make the lead as quickly as I could, but I was a little slow
(away from the gate) and had a hard time getting to the front,” Chavez said
after reaching 4,000. “I didn’t believe there would be much that pressure, but
the last few days I started getting worried. Now there is no more pressure.”
Chavez showcased his skills later in the program, posting win 4,001 in the
9TH race aboard Silver Lace (Silver Deputy), who lit up the tote board with
payouts of $47, $21.60 and $12.60 after getting up in the last jump for a nose
decision.
Winner of the 2001 Kentucky Derby (G1) aboard Monarchos, Chavez was named the
Eclipse Award-winning jockey in 1999 and became the 43rd rider to record 4,000
wins with Friday’s victory. He’s one of 18 active riders to own the achievement.