Gary Stevens dashed speculation Dec. 20 that he would resume his Hall of Fame riding career after an absence of seven years.
The television analyst has been working horses recently at the Pegasus Training and Equine Rehabilitation Center in Redmond, Wash., and reportedly has his weight down to 122 pounds. The Pegasus operation is overseen by Stevens' longtime friend, trainer Mike Puhich.
A lifetime winner of 4,888 races over a 27-year career, Stevens said he wanted to get in shape while awaiting the 2012-13 season at Santa Anita Park to begin.
"As far as a comeback, I don't know who's spreading these rumors … I will be working for HRTV on opening day. That's the only comment I have," said Stevens, who turns 50 next March 6.
A three-time Kentucky Derby winner, Stevens announced his retirement Nov. 27, 2005.
Gary Stevens
Anne M. Eberhardt