Page 138 - February 2016 Speedhorse

I love the horses, I love the speed and I love the adrenaline.
Gilbert ortiz
by Michael Compton
Gilbert Ortiz is one of the most respected riders in American Quarter Horse Racing. Having reached the 3,000-win milestone late
in 2015 at Evangeline Downs, Ortiz joined a select group of just six other Quarter Horse riders with that many victories: G.R. Carter, Jr., Alvin Brossette, Danny Cardoza, Eddie Garcia and John Creager.
At 52, Ortiz admittedly may be slowing down a bit these days, although one can hardly tell. He rides for several trainers, gallops horses every day—23 on the morning of this January interview—and breaks and trains young runners for clients.
Known for an outstanding work ethic and dedica- tion to his craft, the veteran rider has overcome more than his share of trying injuries, some that would have likely sent a less driven athlete to ply another trade. He suffered a broken leg in 1998 and doctors told him that he may never ride again. In 1999, he broke his back and once again returned to the saddle.
Widely respected by fellow riders, Ortiz is a past recipient of the Sam Thompson Memorial Jockey Award (2012), which is voted on by jockeys. The peer-elected honor is given each year to a rider whose personal character on and off the racetrack reflects positively on the industry. As further testament to the esteem in which he is held, Ortiz will receive the Jacky Martin Award during this month’s Jockeys’ Guild Conference and Awards ceremony in South Florida.
A native of Pleasanton, Texas, Ortiz recently visited with Speedhorse to reflect on his career riding American Quarter Horses.
What do you remember most from the night you Won your 3,000th race at evangeline doWns?
It was great because my family was there. They surprised me. Even though my brothers didn’t make it in, my sisters were there and my kids were there. It
was a big surprise for me. My son is in the Air Force and my daughters works, so I wasn’t expecting them to get away. My agent got everything put together. Evangeline Downs, the racing office, they really took care of me and did a tremendous job. It was amazing. I thought I had a better shot (to win) on the Saturday card, but I got it done one day early. It worked out.
hoW important Was it to you to reach that significant milestone?
When I learned I was 30 wins from 3,000, I tried to just take it day by day. I had a great meet at Evangeline, and I will always remember it. I never thought about winning this many races. When I started out, I thought it would be great to win a race a day or a week. I always take it one day and one win at a time.
It’s been a long road, but I am very happy about the accomplishment. Getting to this point is pretty special. I have slowed down now. I got tired of moving around and traveling so much. I never thought I would win 3,000 races. I’ve had great agents, owners and trainers behind me throughout my career. I have ridden some great horses, and of course, that’s what makes it all possible.
you have ridden so many top horses through the years; can you name a feW of your favorites?
Tailor Fit (World Champion), Kool Kue Baby (3-Time Champion/AQHA’s All-Time Leading Stakes Winner), Vals Fortune (2-Time Champion),
A Jockey’s View
Gilbert is honored by the jockey colony and others at Evangeline Downs after scoring his 3,000th win
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SPEEDHORSE, February 2016
THE BACKSIDE
coady Photography