Yedsit Hazlewood, a teenage apprentice jockey who made a significant impact on Maryland horse racing in 2025, reached a new career milestone Sunday at Laurel Park. At just 17 years old, Hazlewood secured his 100th win by riding Passage East to victory in the eagerly awaited eighth race, earning a $56,000 allowance for the filly over six furlongs.
Hazlewood expressed his gratitude towards his mentors, trainer Jose Corrales, and agent John DiNatale, describing the horse as “perfect” and acknowledging Passage East as the best competitor in the race.
Before his debut on March 21, Corrales, a seasoned jockey turned trainer with over 1,000 wins in the U.S. and success in Macau, highly praised Hazlewood. Corrales noted the young rider’s talents, comparing him to the renowned Ortiz family and emphasizing Hazlewood’s experience since age nine in Panama.
Hazlewood’s initial victories came early in April with a double win at Addie’s Laddie TNT and Skip Through Da Fire, proving his skills were no fluke. After recovering from a two-month injury, he racked up achievement after achievement, including leading the standings at the Maryland State Fair meet in Timonium and multiple wins at Laurel Park in October.
Trainer Hugh McMahon admired Hazlewood’s focus and balance after seeing him ride Lady Ensign, noting the horse’s responsiveness to the young jockey. Hazlewood’s winning streak continued with multiple victories in the Jim McKay Maryland Million Program and maintaining a strong presence in November with stakes wins, including the recent triumph aboard Ready to Dial in Pennsylvania’s $50,000 Blue Mountain.
Currently leading the jockey standings at the Laurel Park Fall Meeting, Hazlewood boasts 51 wins, 18 more than veteran Jorge Luis, and has achieved at least one win in each of the past 16 Laurel Park races. Since returning to racing on August 14, he’s won 78 of 310 mounts, maintaining an impressive 25% strike rate.
Passage East, the mare Hazlewood rode to his 100th victory, was the race favorite and performed brilliantly, overcoming a wide turn to narrowly defeat Goodnighton God Bless. Originally sold as a yearling for $12,000 and later purchased by Fox & Hare Stables for $20,000, she has developed into a strong competitor under McMahon’s guidance.
Passage East, who started her career with a second-place finish at Finger Lakes, was acquired by McMahon for owner Larry Raybould and has since won five consecutive races at various tracks, until finishing third last month at Suidobashi. McMahon candidly discussed challenges faced in certain races, attributing a recent poor performance to travel stress and logistical issues.
Although no next race has been confirmed, there’s consideration for entering Passage East in an upcoming stakes race, with hopes of securing a black-type win. Though she missed a recent race due to a shoe mishap, her quick recovery keeps her on track for future competition.
Fan Take: Yedsit Hazlewood’s rapid rise and consistent excellence bring fresh energy and excitement to Maryland horse racing, signaling a bright future for the sport. His success story not only inspires aspiring jockeys but also underscores the potential for young talent to reshape competitive racing landscapes.
