The 153rd racing season at the Fair Grounds in Gentilly is all set to kick off on Friday. This historic race course is set to witness some thrilling rides and remarkable performances. Let's take a closer look at some of the top jockeys who will be in action during the 2024-2025 meet.

Uncover the Talents of the Fair Grounds' Jockeys

Brian Hernandez Jr.

This Lafayette native has made quite a name for himself. He achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the ninth jockey in history and the first since Calvin Borel in 2009 to win both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks in the same year. His victories on Thorpedo Anna in the Oaks and Mystik Dan in the Derby were a result of his longstanding partnership with trainer Kenny McPeek. Over the summer, he was honored with the 2024 Mike Venezia Memorial Award for his exceptional sportsmanship and citizenship. His skills and determination on the track have earned him a special place among the jockeys.During his career, Hernandez Jr. has shown a remarkable ability to handle different types of horses and track conditions. His experience and intuition have often given him an edge over his competitors. He is known for his strategic riding and his ability to make split-second decisions that can make or break a race. His success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

Jose Ortiz

The younger brother of the five-time Eclipse Award-winning rider, Irad, Jose Ortiz is making his mark at the Fair Grounds for the first time this year. At just 31 years old, the Puerto Rico native is already a force to be reckoned with. He ranks fourth in the nation this year with earnings of more than $23 million. His achievements include winning the 2017 Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey and the Breeders Cup Mile this year aboard More Than Looks.Ortiz is expected to earn top mounts for trainer Cherie DeVaux, and his presence at the Fair Grounds is sure to add excitement to the races. His riding style is characterized by his speed and precision. He has a natural ability to read the race and make the right moves at the right time. His success is a result of his talent and his commitment to continuous improvement.

Axel Concepcion

The 19-year-old Puerto Rico native is one of the rising stars in the sport. After riding at Turfway Park last winter, he is now bringing his tack to the Fair Grounds. He won the 2023 Eclipse Award for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey, having led all apprentice jockeys in wins and earnings. His success at Laurel Park in Maryland, where he earned the spring riding title, and at Delaware Park is a testament to his skills and potential.Concepcion is known for his fearless riding and his ability to handle challenging situations. He has a natural talent for adapting to different track conditions and horses. His young age has not held him back, and he has already shown that he has what it takes to be a top jockey. His future in the sport looks very bright.

Ben Curtis

The 35-year-old Irishman made a successful debut season at the Fair Grounds last year. He rode 43 winners and finished fourth in the 2023-2024 jockey standings. His victory in the 2024 riding title at Colonial Downs with 24 winners and more than $1.3 million in earnings is a testament to his skills and determination.Curtis is known for his consistency and his ability to perform well in different races. He has a good understanding of horse psychology and is able to get the best out of his mounts. His experience and knowledge have made him a valuable asset to the racing community.

Jaime Torres

The 25-year-old Puerto Rico native had a successful debut season at the Fair Grounds a year ago. He won his first career stakes races at the Fair Grounds last year aboard Leslie’s Loot in the Letellier Memorial Stakes and Just Might in the Richard R. Scherer Memorial Stakes. His victory in the 2024 Preakness Stakes with Seize the Grey was a moment of pride for him and his fans.Torres is known for his courage and his ability to handle pressure. He has a natural talent for reading the race and making the right moves at the right time. His success is a result of his hard work and his passion for the sport.