For American-based rider Angel Cruz it was a case of first mount in Jamaica, first winner.
Cruz booted home the Anthony Nunes-conditioned Immeasurable Joy to victory in the third race on Tuesday’s (August 6, 2024) 11-race card. Immeasurable Joy won a maiden special weight event over 7 furlongs by 3 lengths in 1:30.2. It was the first of his four rides on the day.
Cruz's eyes sparkled as he entered the winner’s enclosure. After unsaddling in the winners’ enclosure Cruz mingled with racing fans, much to their delight, and then capped it off with several acrobatic backflips.
"It's amazing," Cruz exclaimed.
"They treat us like we're famous. The people here are incredibly kind and hospitable” Cruz added as every smile, every handshake, and every encouraging word fuelled his passion for racing.
Cruz's journey to this moment began at Charles Town in West Virginia, United States, where he earned his jockey's licence in 2014. Cruz’s first winner was Texas Glitz.
"It was a mile and one-sixteenth and we won by 10 ¾ lengths." Cruz recalled, beaming with pride. “Winning my first career race was a very good feeling and winning my first here is also very special to me,” Cruz said.
Growing up, Cruz was surrounded by racing people. His stepdad and uncle were both jockeys, and their stories inspired him to follow in their footsteps. A wise Colombian mentor taught him the intricacies of the sport, and soon, Cruz was hooked.
"After that, the rest was history," he said with a grin.
Cruz’s career has been a whirlwind of success, with 984 wins, multiple graded stakes victories, and championships at Aqueduct and Laurel Park.
“My career has been so amazing. I have won so many races. I have won so many Graded Stakes races. I am only 29 years old and I have to keep going and keep winning races. I won championships at Aqueduct and Laurel Park tied with [Jeiron] Barbosa. So, the feeling is so amazing. I mean we have worked so hard and we are living the dream,” Cruz said.
Cruz said that he is eager to return to Jamaica.
"I feel amazing, the crowd is cheering, and the track is great. The gate crew takes care of you - it's a wonderful experience. I am coming back here to ride. I will be back for the Mouttet Mile in December” Cruz said.
