The 151st Kentucky Derby, set for May 3 at Churchill Downs, features a diverse roster of 20 jockeys, including six past winners and five first-time competitors. Notable riders include Junior Alvarado, who aims for his first win aboard Sovereignty, and Javier Castellano, who recently broke his Derby winless streak with Mage in 2023 and will ride Owen Almighty this year. Other experienced jockeys like Manny Franco and Martin Garcia are also in the mix, each bringing their unique skills and past performances to the prestigious race.
Several first-time Derby participants are looking to make their mark, such as Nik Juarez, who rides American Promise after a successful partnership with trainer D. Wayne Lukas, and João Moreira, known as the “Magic Man,” who will pilot Luxor Café. Additionally, young jockeys like Joseph Ramos and Luan Machado are seizing their first Derby opportunities, showcasing the blend of seasoned talent and fresh faces in this year’s lineup.
The competition is fierce, with established jockeys like Mike Smith, a two-time Derby winner, and John Velazquez, who has three Derby victories, returning to the track. Each jockey brings a wealth of experience and strategy, setting the stage for an exciting race filled with potential surprises and thrilling performances as they vie for the coveted title.
