KINGSTON, Jamaica - Gutierrez, who hails from Rochester, New York, reflected on his unexpected journey to becoming a jockey, noting that despite it not being his original career goal, he harbours no regrets about his path into horse racing. He marked the beginning of his career with a win at Finger Lakes in 2017, the year he commenced riding.
In the subsequent year, Gutierrez's skill earned him a nomination for the Eclipse Award as an outstanding apprentice. He went on to build a formidable record on the New York Racing Association circuit and at Florida's Gulfstream Park in 2019. His achievements include a first graded stakes victory aboard Do Share in the Tom Fool Handicap at Aqueduct.
"My father is a trainer at Finger Lakes," Gutierrez informed. "Spending time with him sparked my love for the sport, and my uncles are also jockeys. I didn't set out to be a jockey; my ambition was in physical therapy. However, my growth stopped, and that led me to where I am now," he explained.
About his visit to Jamaica on April 1, 2024, Gutierrez said: “Today, I'm simply savouring Jamaica. I have no regrets. I'm a satisfied rider. Today, I'm the happiest person here, enjoying Jamaica."
On Gutierrez's first appearance at Caymanas Park. He did not win from his five mounts but described the event as an unforgettable experience.
"The atmosphere was uplifting with the excellent weather and cheerful crowds," he commented. "It was a joy to race on such a fine track, which I found comparable to Colonial Downs in Richmond, Virginia. It's spacious, with wide tracks and turns that are favorable for the horses. The measurements of 200, 400, and 600 meters align closely with those at Colonial Downs."
