Flavien Prat has rewritten the record books in 2024, emerging as a dominant force on the North American racing circuit. With just three live race days remaining, Prat reflects on his remarkable journey and the challenges that led him to this pinnacle of success.

From Record-Breaker to Eclipse Favorite: Prat’s Year of Triumph

The year 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary for jockey Flavien Prat. As the calendar approaches its end, Prat stands atop the racing world, having shattered records and established himself as a leading contender for the prestigious Eclipse Award. His transition from Southern California to the competitive NYRA tracks has proven to be a masterstroke, propelling him to unprecedented heights.

Breaking Barriers: The Move East

Prat’s decision to shift his base to the East Coast was met with skepticism by many. However, the French-born jockey saw it as an opportunity to challenge himself against the best in the business. Despite initial reservations, he found support from trainers and owners who recognized his talent. This move allowed Prat to tap into new opportunities, ultimately leading to a string of victories that have redefined his career.The transition was not without its difficulties. Establishing credibility in a tightly-knit community required patience and perseverance. Yet, Prat’s adaptability and dedication earned him the respect of his peers. He credits his agent, Brad Pegram, and his wife Manon for providing the guidance needed to navigate this challenging period.

Riding in Uncharted Territory

Racing conditions on the East Coast differ significantly from those in California. From varying track surfaces to different training methods, Prat had to adjust his approach. His prior experience in France proved invaluable, as the European style of racing shares similarities with the East Coast. This background helped Prat seamlessly integrate into the new environment, allowing him to excel across diverse races and conditions.Prat’s versatility as a jockey is one of his defining traits. Whether riding dirt or turf horses, sprinters or routers, front runners or closers, he adapts his style to give each horse its best chance. This adaptability has been key to his success, enabling him to secure wins in various stakes races throughout the year.

Achieving Milestones

One of Prat’s most notable achievements came at Aqueduct Racetrack, where he won the Grade 2 Remsen aboard Godolphin’s Poster. This victory marked his 80th stakes win of the year, surpassing Irad Ortiz Jr.’s single-season record set in 2022. Simultaneously, he tied Jerry Bailey’s single-year record of 55 graded stakes wins, a feat that has earned him comparisons to the Hall of Famer.The Breeders’ Cup provided another highlight, with Prat bouncing back from a slow Friday to clinch two major victories on Saturday. These triumphs underscored his resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Reflecting on these moments, Prat expressed immense satisfaction, acknowledging the hard work and determination that brought him to this point.

Aiming for the Eclipse Award

As the year draws to a close, Prat finds himself in prime position to claim the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey. This accolade would cap off an already stellar year and solidify his status as one of the top jockeys in North America. Winning the Eclipse Award was once a distant dream, but through sheer effort and strategic decisions, Prat has placed himself within reach of this coveted prize.Looking ahead, Prat remains focused on maintaining his momentum. With several graded events still on the horizon, he aims to build upon his accomplishments and leave a lasting legacy in the world of horse racing. His journey from Southern California to the NYRA tracks exemplifies the power of ambition and adaptability, setting a new standard for future generations of jockeys.