In a remarkable achievement, Dylan Davis secured the top spot as the leading rider at the New York Racing Association (NYRA) for 2024. With an impressive 209 wins across six race meets, Davis not only added another year-end title to his name but also showcased significant improvements in his riding skills. His success was marked by notable victories and strong partnerships with key figures in the racing world. Meanwhile, Chad Brown continued his dominance as the leading trainer, while Klaravich Stables emerged as the top owner. The season also witnessed Manny Franco clinching the Aqueduct fall meet title, and Linda Rice securing her third consecutive training title at the same meet.

Davis's standout performances included 23 stakes wins, including 10 graded events, culminating in a Grade 1 victory at the Saratoga Derby Invitational. His partnership with agent Mike Migliore and support from horsemen and owners played a crucial role in his achievements. Additionally, interactions with top riders like Flavien Prat provided valuable insights that propelled him to new heights. Chad Brown's dominance as a trainer saw him secure nine year-end titles, while Klaravich Stables maintained its winning streak with 63 victories. Franco's performance at the Aqueduct fall meet highlighted the competitive spirit of the season.

Davis's Stellar Year and Key Partnerships

Dylan Davis had a career-best year, amassing 209 wins across six NYRA race meets. This achievement solidified his position as the leading rider for the second time, following his success in 2022. Davis's triumphs were spread across various meets, including the Aqueduct winter meet with 54 wins and Belmont at the Big A fall meet with 44 wins. His dedication and hard work, coupled with the support of his agent Mike Migliore, were instrumental in this accomplishment. Davis expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by trainers and owners, acknowledging their role in his success.

The most memorable moments of Davis's year came during the Saratoga meet, where he tied with Tyler Gaffalione for third place with 36 wins. This performance not only opened eyes but also demonstrated his improved riding abilities. One of the highlights was Carson's Run's victory in the Grade 1 Saratoga Derby Invitational, marking Davis's first Grade 1 win in the United States. Growing up in Saratoga Springs, this achievement held special significance for him. Furthermore, being stationed near Flavien Prat in the jockeys' room allowed Davis to learn from one of the top riders, enhancing his skills and understanding of the sport. His final record for the year stood at 1,091: 209-165-140, with earnings of $15,349,606, showcasing a win rate of 19.16 percent and an in-the-money rate of 47.11 percent.

Chad Brown and Klaravich Stables Dominate Training and Ownership

Trainer Chad Brown continued his dominance on the NYRA circuit, securing his ninth year-end training title with 146 wins. Brown's expertise was evident as he captured three meet titles at Belmont at the Big A spring, Saratoga, and a 13th consecutive Belmont at the Big A fall. His impressive track record included 27 graded wins, with several Grade 1 victories featuring horses like Chancer McPatrick, Carl Spackler, Domestic Product, Raging Sea, Ways and Means, Whitebeam, Randomized, and Chili Flag. Brown's overall record for the year was 574: 146-96-77, with total purse earnings of $15,881,246, reflecting a win rate of 25.44 percent and an in-the-money percentage of 55.57 percent.

Klaravich Stables, owned by Seth Klarman, claimed its sixth consecutive year-end title with 63 victories. The stable's collaboration with Chad Brown resulted in 12 stakes wins, including Grade 1 successes in the Ogden Phipps, Test, and H. Allen Jerkens Memorial. Michael Dubb finished second with 38 wins, while Linda Rice took third with 34 wins. At the Aqueduct fall meet, Manny Franco emerged as the leading rider with 34 wins, adding to his previous meet titles. Trainer Linda Rice secured her third consecutive Aqueduct fall meet training title with 22 wins, highlighting her consistent performance. Sanford Goldfarb clinched the owners' title at the Big A fall meet with eight wins, setting the stage for the upcoming Aqueduct winter meet, which resumes on Wednesday with an eight-race card.