Vincent Jimbo Brassiere Jr., a nationally renowned jockey, is being remembered with scheduled services following his passing on December 15th at 72 years old. Brassiere, who spent much of his distinguished riding career in Maryland before becoming a trainer in the early 1990s, will have a memorial mass on Thursday, January 8, at 11 a.m. at St. Louis Catholic Church in Clarksville, Maryland, with a life celebration at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland. A private burial service has already taken place.
Brassiere started his jockey career in 1970 at Shenandoah Downs in West Virginia and was named head apprentice in New Jersey the next year. He gained fame primarily in Maryland, where he won 3,545 races out of 20,291 starts, including over 40 graded stakes victories. Notably, he won five graded stakes in 1974, including the Spinaway Stakes riding Ruffian, who would later be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He retired from riding at 37 in January 1990.
Apart from his track successes, Brassiere was highly respected for his leadership and support of fellow riders. As a director of the Maryland Horsemen’s Union, he was recognized as a principled and committed advocate for the horsemen community.
This story highlights the lasting impact of Vincent Brassiere Jr. on the sport, reminding horse racing fans of the importance of leadership both on and off the track. His dedication to the welfare of jockeys and the racing community sets a strong example for the future of the sport, underscoring the human element behind the thrilling competition.
