Jose Ortiz is named to ride eight races Saturday at Turfway Park, and after Jeff Ruby Steaks Day, fans in Kentucky will begin to see his name regularly in the program as he is slated to ride full-time this spring at Keeneland and Churchill Downs.
For many years, Ortiz has been a regular rider on the New York circuit during the spring and summer, but this will be the first time he will remain in Kentucky. Agent Steve Rushing, who also works for Jose’s brother, Irad Ortiz Jr., will continue to have his book in Kentucky.
Both jockeys are Eclipse Award winners.
Among Jose’s many mounts on Saturday is Sam F. Davis Stakes (G3) runner-up Agate Road in the $700,000 Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3) for Hall of Fame trainer Todd Pletcher. Listed at 4-1 on the morning line odds, Agate Road was cross-entered in Saturday’s Louisiana Derby (G2) at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots. According to Turfway Park publicity, Pletcher stated he is “leaning towards” running the son of Quality Road at Turfway.
Other notable mounts for Ortiz Saturday at Turfway include Wolfie’s Dynaghost in the $300,000 Kentucky Cup Classic (G3) and Blue Eyed George in the $250,000 Rushaway Stakes.
Following Jeff Ruby Steaks Day, Ortiz will return to Florida, where he is the third leading rider at Gulfstream Park behind his brother and Paco Lopez, but will be back in Kentucky when Keeneland’s spring meet begins April 5.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
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