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By: Chris Lomon, Woodbine Communications |
Jock Talk: Luis Contreras
Stat pack
- 2,439 career wins (as of March 26)
- 212 stakes victories
- Posted 82 wins in 2022, including seven stakes scores
- Finished sixth in the Woodbine rider standings in purse earnings ($3,169,472) and sixth in wins (66)
- Top horses include Pender Harbour, Inglorious, Amis Gizmo, Amis Holiday, Holy Helena, Ami’s Mesa, Avie’s Flatter
Goes by fast
“I came to Woodbine in 2009, but it doesn’t seem that long ago. It has gone by pretty fast. There have been some great moments, winning two Queen’s Plates (in 2011 with Inglorious and 2017 with Holy Helena), and Sovereign Awards (Canada’s champion rider in 2011 and 2012). I remember coming here and seeing the track for the first time, and how nice it was. I was really happy to start riding here and hopefully I can ride for a long time at Woodbine.”
An ideal pairing
“Having Gerry [former rider, Olguin] as my agent has been really good. He knows the business and he can understand what we go through as a rider. It’s not an easy change to go from a rider to an agent. There is a lot to learn. But Gerry works hard and is respected by so many people.”
A Plate ‘trifecta?’
“Winning the Queen’s Plate twice was an amazing feeling both times. It is a very big race and there is a lot of history behind it. The day itself is always great because there are so many fans here and the crowd really enjoys it. I was lucky enough to win the race two times, but I would love to say I won the first King’s Plate. No matter how many times you win it, when you do, it’s a special feeling.”
The extra mile
“Each year, I want to do better than the year before and to win the big races. It’s been a good start to the year riding out in California and hopefully that continues through to the Woodbine season. You always want to start the year out strong and carry that throughout the whole season.”
Finish line
“When I’m not riding, I enjoy just spending time with my family. When the season starts, you have to be focused from the very first day, so when I’m done at the racetrack, the best way for me to unwind and relax is to be with my family and enjoy our time together.”
