Jockey Emisael Jaramillo, who has built a successful career from Venezuela to Florida and now California, is making a significant push to join the ranks of Kentucky Derby contenders. Riding Robusta in the Santa Anita Derby, Jaramillo aims for a victory or at least a top-three finish to secure enough qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby. This race marks a milestone in his first season at Santa Anita, where he leads the jockey standings with 44 wins and has formed a strong partnership with trainer Doug O’Neill.

Jaramillo’s journey reflects bold moves and steady progress, from his early success in Venezuela to becoming a top jockey in the U.S. Despite previous Kentucky Derby rides on longshots that finished far back, a win in the Santa Anita Derby with Robusta could elevate his profile significantly. Known for his skill in getting horses out of the gate and into contention, Jaramillo is poised to make a major impact in the upcoming Derby season.