A Dream Come True for Edwin Gonzalez at Gulfstream Park
Journey to Success
The Puerto Rico native Edwin Gonzalez began his riding career at Camarero before venturing to the U.S. in 2013. Since then, he has established a year-round presence at Gulfstream Park. He has ridden an impressive 1,912 winners during his career while maintaining a 20-percent strike rate. His hard work and dedication have paid off, as he now holds the prestigious riding title.Gonzalez's success is not just a one-time event. He has been working hard every morning, getting good business and receiving opportunities from trainers. His perseverance and talent have allowed him to rise to the top.
During the fall meet, which began on September 6, Gonzalez showed exceptional skills. He held a one-win lead over Zayas, 35-34, heading into the final day. Although neither jockey made it into the winner's circle on closing day, Gonzalez's achievement is still remarkable.
Marquee Race Wins
C2 Racing Stable LLC, Agave Racing Stable and Ken Reimer's Soul of an Angel won the meet's marquee race on September 21. The Saffie Joseph Jr.-trained 5-year-old mare rallied from last following a tardy start to capture the Grade 3 Princess Rooney by 3 1/2 lengths. This victory earned her a fees-paid berth into the Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Sprint on November 2 at Del Mar.The daughter of Atreides went on to victory in the seven-furlong sprint for fillies and mares during the Breeders' Cup. Under Drayden Van Dyke, she closed from many lengths last to score by a half-length. Joseph's training skills were on full display as he collected his 11th consecutive training title during the fall meet with 39 winners.
This win was just one of many highlights for Gonzalez during the fall meet. His consistent performance and ability to handle different races have made him a force to be reckoned with.
Other Notable Victories
St. Elias Stable's Rated by Merit also garnered national attention during the fall meet. The Michael Yates-trained son of Battalion Runner earned the fastest Beyer Speed Figure, 99, by a 2-year-old this year with a dominating 3 3/4-length triumph in the $200,000 Affirmed on October 19. This was the second leg of the 2024 FTBOA Florida Sire Stakes series for 2-year-olds sired by accredited Florida stallions.Rated by Merit remained undefeated in three career starts, including a July 13 debut score by 9 3/4 lengths and a 6 1/2-furlong victory in the Dr. Fager on September 7, the first leg of the Florida Sire Stakes series. He will seek to become the 11th colt or gelding to sweep the series during the upcoming winter meet in Saturday's $300,000 In Reality.
Troy Johnson and Martiza Weston's Win N Your In also had a successful fall meet. They captured the Sharp Susan in open company during the summer meet and scored an impressive 4 1/2-length victory in the October 19 Susan's Girl, the second leg of the Florida Sire Stakes series for 2-year-old fillies. The Carlos David-trained daughter of Win Win Win is scheduled to clash with R Morning Brew, the winner of the Desert Vixen on September 7, in the $300,000 My Dear Girl, Saturday's series final.
Gonzalez's achievements during the fall meet have solidified his place in the racing world. His hard work, talent and determination have led him to this moment of success, and he shows no signs of slowing down.