Eddie Delahoussaye was presented the Laffit Pincay Jr. Award in 2013.

Eddie Delahoussaye was presented the Laffit Pincay Jr. Award in 2013.

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Del Mar Gives Laffit Pincay Award New Home

Honor created by Hall of Fame jockey in 2004 was previously hosted by Hollywood Park.

The Laffit Pincay Jr. Award, established at Hollywood Park in 2004, will continue at Del Mar this summer when it is presented by the Hall of Fame jockey July 27.

The prestigious award honors an individual or organization that has served racing with integrity, dedication, determination, and distinction. Previously, the recipient was selected by Pincay in consultation with officials at the now-closed Hollywood Park. Starting this year, the former rider and officials of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will choose the winner.

"When Hollywood closed, I wasn't sure what was going to happen with my award," said the 67-year-old Panamanian who finished his illustrious riding career with 9,530 winners, second most all-time. "But then the people at Del Mar contacted me and said they'd love to have me keep it alive and bring it to their track. The award is meant as an honor for special people in our sport, so, naturally, I was glad to."

The most recent winner of the Laffit Pincay, Jr. Award was fellow Hall of Fame jockey Eddie Delahoussaye. Other recipients include Jerry and Ann Moss, the Oak Tree Racing Association, John Harris, Pete Pedersen, and brothers Warren and Mel Stute.

Pincay's rich history in the game extended from coast to coast during his 39 years in the saddle, but was primarily made in Southern California, including 27 summers at Del Mar. He is the seaside track's leading rider with 1,011 victories. He also was the track's riding champion on five occasions and won 96 of its stakes races. He retired in 2003 at the age of 56.

Among his many honors were five Eclipse Awards as North America's top rider, seven years as the leading jockey for purses won, career leader in victories at Santa Anita Park and Hollywood Park, and a list of star racehorses that rivals anyone.

"This is truly an honor for Del Mar to be associated with an individual of class and distinction like Laffit," said Joe Harper, Del Mar's president and CEO. "His award and what it stands for is an example of all that is good in racing and we're delighted to give it—and him—a new home at our racetrack."

The award will be presented in a special winner's circle ceremony between races on July 27. An announcement of the winner will be made in the week prior to the event.