Garrett Gomez topped off his record-setting year by accepting an Eclipse Award trophy Jan. 21 as the nation’s leading jockey.
The California-based rider had 265 winners and total earnings of $22,800,074 in 2007. More importantly, he set the North American record for number of stakes wins at 76 when he won the Moccasin Stakes with Spring Awakening at Hollywood Park Nov. 11. The previous record of 70 stakes wins was held by Jerry Bailey, who set it in 2003.
Other hightlights of Gomez’ amazing year included taking the TVG Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) with Midnight Lute and the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies with Indian Blessing. He also won the Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) on Rags to Riches.