Before he arrived at Tampa Bay Downs last autumn for the ongoing meet, jockey Jesus Castanon engaged in a conversation with his wife, former jockey Rolanda Simpson, regarding the potential of retiring.
Castanon, reflecting on his passion for the sport, expressed uncertainty about what he will do when he eventually decides to retire. Since his debut at Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana, Mexico, just a week after turning 16, he has achieved an impressive record of 2,721 victories. However, I am grateful for the time that God has blessed me with and for the opportunity to continue riding despite my age.
"I informed my spouse that I intend to continue my endeavours for as long as my well-being remains in good condition, as determined by a higher power."
We'll have to postpone any additional discussions about retirement for now. Castanon, aged 51, is set to return to Kentucky next week to commence the last stages of preparation for riding West Saratoga in the momentous 150th Kentucky Derby (G1) on May 4 at Churchill Downs.
Castanon has piloted the 3-year-old colt in both of his most recent races, securing a third-place spot on February 10 in the Sam F. Davis (G3) at Tampa Bay Downs and a second-place position on March 23 in the Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3) on the all-weather track at Turfway Park. His assignment is set for West Saratoga on Saturday at Keeneland.