Irad Ortiz, Jr. rode four Breeders' Cup winners at the 2019 World Championships–including GI Longines Turf hero and Horse of the Year Bricks and Mortar (Giant's Causeway), who he was aboard for all six of his wins from six tries last term. Ortiz's other Breeders' Cup winners were GI Longines Classic winner Vino Rosso (Curlin), GI Big Ass Fans Dirt Mile victor Spun to Run (Hard Spun) and GII Juvenile Turf Sprint scorer Four Wheel Drive (American Pharoah). Ortiz won 35 graded stakes in 2019, including 11 at the highest level.
Accepting the Award…
“First of all, I want to thank God for all the success I have been having in my career. I want to say thanks to all of the owners and trainers who help me a lot. Without you guys, I wouldn't be
here today. I want to thank the Eclipse Award voters, and also thank my agent Steve Rushing, who has done an amazing job for me. I am so happy. I have no words to explain how happy I am right now. So thanks to everyone.” —Irad Ortiz, Jr.
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