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At Churchill Downs Racetrack, the top horse owners, trainers, and jockeys of 2025 have been honored. Jose Ortiz claimed the Oliver Lewis Leading Jockey Award with 111 wins under the Twin Spires banner during the Spring, September, and Autumn Tournaments. Brad Cox earned the Ansel Williamson Leading Trainer Award after securing 41 victories, while Godolphin captured the Henry Price McGrath Leading Owner Award with 20 wins at Louisville Race Course. These awards pay tribute to the jockey, trainer, and owner associated with Aristides, the first Kentucky Derby winner from 1875.
On the West Coast, trainers Chad Brown and assistant Jose Hernandez shared news of their horses’ successful runs and recovery plans. Just Aloof won the Jimmy Durante Stakes (G3), and Salamis finished first in the Hollywood Derby (G1), with plans to return to Kentucky for rest and preparation for upcoming challenges.
Call Sign Seven continues to impress after winning the Seabiscuit Stakes (G2) on Saturday. Trainer Michael McCarthy is considering entering him in the San Gabriel Stakes (G3) at Santa Anita on December 26. Call Sign Seven’s $139 payout was the largest of the tournament, thrilling bettors with a $2 winning ticket.
At Gulfstream Park, jockey Lavia is nearing his 2,000th career win after guiding the 2-year-old colt Augustinian to victory in Sunday’s second race. Augustinian, trained by Mark Casse, overcame his early challenges to win impressively on a rain-soaked Tapeta course. Jockey Marat, known for his success with top horses, plans to compete in upcoming races like the $12,500 maiden winner for 2-year-old fillies and a 6-furlong claimer, showcasing his continued impact in the sport.
Turfway Park will host the newest addition to its stakes lineup, the Boone County Stakes, a 1 1/4 mile race offering a $125,000 purse. Leading contenders include Grade 3 winner Swift Delivery, trained by Mark Casse and owned by notable partners, aiming to prove stamina over the longer distance. Safe Journey Home, winner of the Colonial Cup at Colonial Downs, is also a strong competitor, alongside other prominent horses like Common Defense and Honor Marie.
This article was first published by Paulick Report on December 1, 2025.
Fan Take: These year-end honors at Churchill Downs and key racing updates across top tracks highlight the ongoing excellence and fierce competition in horse racing. For fans, this news showcases the rising stars and enduring champions that keep the sport thrilling and promising for the future.
