Neil Poznanski, who once competed as a jockey, now thrives in his second career as an exercise rider and assistant to Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott. Known for his encouraging words to owners during his jockey days, Poznanski now understands the unpredictability of racing, especially with standout horses like Sovereign. At 52, he plays a vital role in preparing champions, having contributed to winners of major races like the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. On June 26th, at Saratoga Race Course, he executed Mott’s directions flawlessly during a prep race for the $500,000 Jim Dandy (G2).
Poznanski has observed the physical and mental growth of Sovereign, a promising 3-year-old, who is becoming stronger and more focused with time. Mott, 71, is praised for his patient approach, allowing horses to mature at their own pace. Following the Derby, Mott highlighted the strength of his team, recognizing the many people involved in preparing a horse for success.
Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Poznanski retired from riding in 2008 with 761 wins and nearly $16 million in earnings. He is notable for being the second individual to win both the Eclipse Award in the US and the Sovereign Award as a top apprentice in Canada, achieving this double honor in 1996. As he aged and gained weight, his race mounts declined, prompting a career transition to working behind the scenes with Mott’s horses, a role he embraced enthusiastically.
Poznanski rides many top horses in Mott’s stable, including Grade 1 winners like Elate, Flat Out, Hall of Famer Royal Delta, the 2023 Horse of the Year Cody’s Wish, and two-time champion sprinter Elite Power. He regards Sovereign as one of the finest horses to come through the barn, noting the colt’s ongoing improvement and unlimited potential.
Sovereign, a Godolphin homebred, has competed seven times with only one finish outside the board since debuting at Saratoga in July. Junior Alvarado, Sovereign’s regular rider, overcame a rough start in that race. Sovereign has earned $4,872,800 in winnings, including four wins and a runner-up finish. With victories at the Jim Dandy and the Travers Stakes on the horizon, Sovereign is a strong contender for the 3-year-old Eclipse Award and a formidable challenger for the Breeders’ Cup Classic in November.
Poznanski was particularly impressed by Sovereign’s July 4th workout at Saratoga, where he cruised effortlessly alongside another top horse, Jefferson Street. As Sovereign continues to develop, Poznanski enjoys witnessing the collective effort of the entire team, from hot walkers to trainers, all contributing to the horse’s success. When reflecting on his transition, Poznanski recalls asking Mott for a chance simply to work, unaware of how significant that moment would be.
This story was originally published by the Paulick Report on July 21, 2025.
Fan Take: This update highlights the pivotal role that skilled exercise riders like Neil Poznanski play in the success of top racehorses, showcasing the teamwork behind the scenes in horse racing. Sovereign’s rising trajectory signals exciting times ahead for fans, promising thrilling performances in the sport’s biggest upcoming events.
