Jockey John Velazquez made an appearance at Naas in Ireland late on Wednesday afternoon as he attempted to take home his first winner on the Emerald Isle.
The Hall of Famer, who has never ridden on Irish soil before, signed on to guide Dermot Weld trainee De Janeiro (Ire) (Invincible Spirit {Ire}) in the third race which was scheduled for 1:30 p.m. ET–a six-furlong maiden for 3-year-olds and up. His mount finished off the board.
Before appearing at Naas, the filly ran third at Fairyhouse for Newtown Anner Stud Farm June 7.
According to a story in The Racing Post, the reasoning behind Velazquez's presence at Naas is his relationship with Newtown Anner Stud's Maurice Regan.
PJ Colville, Newtown Anner's racing manager told The Racing Post, “Johnny and Maurice Regan would be very good pals and they both live in New York. He's on holidays here with his family. He has had a few rides at Royal Ascot for us before.”
The New York-based Hall of Famer rode during the Belmont at the Big A meet last Sunday, but according to The Racing Post, he could pick up some mounts during the three-day Irish Derby festival at The Curragh over the weekend.
"Nice to be here – a lot of fun!"
Fantastic to see Hall Of Famer John Velazquez at @NaasRacecourse – and it sounds like he'll be back!
After more than 6500 career winners, hear from @ljlmvel on the best he's ridden, the toughest he's come up against and more in a great chat 👇 pic.twitter.com/JRRj305NVy
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) June 26, 2024
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