On April 30, 2025, Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, buzzed with excitement as the Kentucky Derby approached. Among the many jockeys preparing for this prestigious race was Junior Alvarado, a 38-year-old from Venezuela. He has competed in the Derby five times and hopes to finally cross the finish line first this weekend on his horse, No. 18 Sovereignty.
Junior’s journey to this moment began in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, where he started as a “backboy” in a racing stable. He always dreamed of racing in the Kentucky Derby, a race he regarded as the pinnacle of horse racing. "I thought my only chance to win that race was to come to the United States," Alvarado shared. His determination has brought him to this moment, competing against 18 other jockeys for a chance to win a piece of the $5 million prize.
The Kentucky Derby is not just a race; it’s a grand event that attracts spectators from around the world. Many of the jockeys, like Alvarado, hail from Latin America, where horse racing is a beloved sport. The American Business Immigration Coalition reports that up to 70% of jockeys in the U.S. are on work visas, highlighting the significant role that immigrant talent plays in this industry.
As the Trump administration continues to change immigration policies, many in the racing community hope that jockeys will remain unaffected. However, uncertainty looms for those whose status is in limbo. Alvarado knows firsthand the struggles of his fellow riders. "A lot of those are very good athletes. They want to better themselves," he said.
The importance of Latino jockeys in American horse racing cannot be understated. Jockeys from countries like Mexico, Panama, and Venezuela bring rich traditions and skills to the sport. Ramon Dominguez, a retired Hall of Fame jockey from Venezuela, emphasized the dreams of young riders in Latin America, saying, "Horse racing is a big sport. It is equal to American football."
This year, the Louisville Hispanic Chamber of Commerce honored several Latino jockeys at their Derby Pitch event, including Joel Rosario from the Dominican Republic and Mario Gutierrez from Mexico. Rosario, who won the Derby in 2013, reflected on his journey, saying, "Without our jockeys, we would not have a Kentucky Derby."
As the Derby approaches, the community rallies around its jockeys, celebrating their contributions and the diverse backgrounds they represent. The race, often called the fastest two minutes in sports, is a culmination of hard work, dedication, and a shared love for the sport that transcends borders.