In a year marked by steady progress and impressive achievements, trainer Gonzalo Anderson emerged as a standout figure in Alberta horse racing. The 2025 season was a milestone for the young trainer, who topped the trainer charts at both Century Mile and Casino and Century Downs and Casino thoroughbred events. Jockey Anderson led his stable to earnings surpassing $900,000, securing major victories in races such as the Freedom of the City Stakes (Playful), Alberta Sires Stakes Derby (That’s What It’s Here For), CTHS Sales Stakes (It’s All Goodman), and Red Diamond Express Handicap (It’s All Goodman). Throughout the season, his barn was a beacon of success from spring through fall.
Hailing from Venezuela, 37-year-old Anderson attributes his love for horses to his father, who, despite being a doctor, nurtured a passion for racehorses and trained several horses back home. His journey to Alberta began when his aunt, studying English at the University of Calgary, discovered Olds University’s Exercise Rider and Jockey program online—an acclaimed partnership with Alberta Racecourse and Olds College that has produced many top talents in the industry worldwide. Anderson embraced the program enthusiastically, enjoying the experience and learning British-style riding for the first time.
After graduating in 2010, Anderson honed his horsemanship under established equestrian Tim Rycroft, serving as his assistant trainer before venturing out independently in 2022. He credits mentors Twyla Bensmiller and Nancy Jumpson for helping him enhance his skills as an exercise rider—a pivotal ability throughout his career. Since then, Anderson has cultivated a loyal group of horse owners and managed a stable of talented horses, amassing over $2.1 million in career earnings. Though consistent throughout his seasons, 2025 marked a distinct upswing, which he attributes to openness to new approaches and the quality of his horses.
Reflecting on the year and his favorite horse, Anderson highlighted It’s All Goodman, a horse he’s cared for since it was two years old. Turning four in 2025, the Alberta-bred standout has a remarkable record, contributing pride to both Anderson and the horse’s owner, Curtis Landry. Purchased for $23,000 at the 2022 CTHS Alberta Fall Yearling Sale, It’s All Goodman clinched five wins in ten races, including notable titles like the Spangled Jimmy Handicap and the Red Diamond Express Handicap.
Another favorite is the resilient nine-year-old Stone Carver, who earned four victories for owner Kirk Sutherland this season. The success of these horses reflects Anderson’s careful management and the dedication of his team, especially his assistant trainer and co-owner Crystal Cates along with the entire barn’s hardworking staff. Anderson emphasizes the importance of individualized care and happiness for each horse, believing that content horses perform best.
For Anderson, the foundation of a successful stable lies in the people supporting the horses. He values clear, honest communication with owners, keeping them informed about their horses’ conditions and progress. He praises all his owners for their part in the stable’s triumphs, expressing gratitude especially for longtime supporter Chris Duggan and others like Kirk Sutherland, Curtis Landry, Highfield Stock Farms, Debbie Bailey, and Hazel Bennett.
While spending winters at Turf Paradise, Anderson remains focused and realistic about his 2026 goals. He looks forward to Alberta’s upcoming season, inspired by promising young horses in his care and new arrivals from Beckham Ranch. His passion for horses and dedication continue to drive him through the highs and lows of the racing world. His advice for newcomers is clear: have genuine love for horses, understand the effort required, and recognize that the challenges of the industry are balanced by its fulfilling rewards.
Fan Take: Gonzalo Anderson’s rise is a thrilling example of how dedication, passion, and innovative management can elevate horse racing locally and beyond. His success story inspires fans and newcomers alike, signaling a bright future for Alberta racing and showcasing the sport’s potential to nurture fresh talent and create lasting connections.
