Robby Albarado, a former jockey renowned for winning the Preakness Stakes twice during his distinguished career, has passed away at the age of 52. Churchill Downs officials in Louisville, Kentucky, learned of his passing through multiple friends and family members. Recently, Albarado was hospitalized for a procedure to place a stent to relieve a heart blockage, as shared by trainer Kenny McPeek, who employed Albarado as an exercise rider.
Churchill Downs president Mike Anderson expressed sorrow over the loss, stating, “Saying goodbye to someone who left us too soon is extremely difficult. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and numerous friends.”
Albarado’s legacy includes notable victories riding Curlin to wins at the 2007 Preakness and Breeders’ Cup Classic, along with a Preakness win aboard the filly Swiss Skydiver in 2020. Over his career, he amassed a total of five Breeders’ Cup wins among his 5,222 career victories. After retiring in 2022, he continued working with trainer McPeek, who also trained Swiss Skydiver.
Originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, Albarado began his career on bush tracks before turning professional, and he competed in more than 34,000 races while earning over $221 million in purses.
Fan Take: Robby Albarado’s passing marks the loss of one of horse racing’s most accomplished and respected figures, whose skill and determination inspired countless fans and jockeys alike. His impact on the sport highlights the dedication required at the highest level and serves as a reminder of the close-knit nature of the horse racing community.
Source: www.espn.com
