Jockey Javier Castellano returned to Gulfstream Park on Sunday after making headlines the day before by winning Jamaica’s premier horse race, the $300,000 Moutet Mile, which Jamaican racing authorities recognize as a Grade 1 event, held at Caymanas Park. In the richest race within the English-speaking Caribbean, Castellano skillfully rode Lyallday to a commanding nine-length win over competitor Legacy Isle, setting a dirt track record with a time of 1:36.40.
“This experience was incredible. It’s my first visit to Jamaica, and also my first time racing there. Winning the country’s biggest race is unbelievable,” said the 48-year-old Venezuelan jockey. “The atmosphere, the enthusiasm from the fans, and their passion for the horses and the sport make it a spectacular celebration. Everyone is truly excited for this race.”
Castellano, who dominated the championship event as the leading rider for five consecutive seasons from 2011-2012 through 2015-2016, had been invited to Jamaica for the past two years but was unable to participate until now. “In 2023, I couldn’t come because I was committed to riding in the Cigar Mile, and I had obligations in Venezuela in 2024,” he explained. “I believe this year was meant to be—the right place at the right time. When they called, I was ready to compete openly.”
Adding to his enthusiasm is the fact that Ride All Day’s Spendthrift Farm stallion Vekoma, a four-time Eclipse Award champion who won prestigious races such as the 2020 Metropolitan Handicap (G1) and the Carter Handicap (G1), as well as the 2019 Bluegrass Stakes (G2), is Vekoma’s sire. “We have enjoyed much success together,” Castellano shared. “Now, I get to ride his son in Jamaica’s biggest Grade 1 race. It’s a wonderful milestone in my career, and I’m thrilled.”
Jockey Emisael Jaramillo, who piloted Legacy Isle in the Moutet Mile, also returned to Gulfstream Park and secured two wins on Sunday: guiding trainer Mark Casse’s DJ Stable’s Al Piland (at $4.40 odds) to victory in the fifth race, and trainer Victor Barboza Jr.’s Vicente Stella Stable’s Blue Slide Park (also at $4.40 odds) in the eighth.
Fan Take: Javier Castellano’s headline-making victory in Jamaica’s richest race highlights how international competition can elevate the sport’s prestige and bring fresh excitement to horse racing fans worldwide. This win also underscores the global reach and growing significance of Caribbean racing on the sport’s broader stage.
