Joel Rosario Claims Del Mar Summer Meet Jockey Championship in Triumphant Homecoming Return

Iron Man Cal and jockey Joel Rosario win the Grade II $250,000 Pat O’Brien Stakes Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Del Mar, CA. Co-owner Billy Koch greets the winners as they return after the race for winner circle photos. Benoit Photo

BENOIT PHOTO

Veteran jockey Joel Rosario successfully reclaimed his position as Del Mar’s leading rider during the 2026 Summer Meet, capturing the jockey title with impressive statistics. After spending time competing on the New York and Kentucky circuits, Rosario returned to Southern California, where he first established his reputation in 2007. During his comeback campaign, he guided 42 winners to victory while 51% of his mounts finished in the money. His horses earned $2,964,832 over the 32-day meet that ran from July 17 through September 7.

Another Milestone Achievement For Esteemed Rider Joel Rosario

Since arriving in the United States in 2006, Rosario has built an exceptional career that includes multiple riding championships at Del Mar (2009, 2010, and 2011). The Dominican Republic native, who began his professional riding career at just 14 years old, made history in 2013 by becoming the first jockey to win both the Dubai World Cup aboard Animal Kingdom and the Kentucky Derby with Orb in the same calendar year. His outstanding performances earned him the Eclipse Award as the nation’s leading jockey in 2021, and he was elected to the Racing Hall of Fame in 2024 during his first year of eligibility.

Doug O’Neill, who collaborated with Rosario during his 2026 Del Mar training title victory, praised the jockey’s character and skill. “Horses reflect the energy of those around them, and Joel consistently brings out the best in his mounts through his positive demeanor,” O’Neill said. “He’s genuinely one of the most appreciative and cheerful riders in the business, and it makes a real difference when he’s aboard our horses.”

Strategic Relocation Proves Successful For Dedicated Jockey

Del Mar, which opened its gates under Bing Crosby’s ownership in 1937, has long been considered one of Thoroughbred racing’s premier destinations, often described by industry professionals as a “working vacation spot.” For Rosario, returning to this scenic oceanfront facility proved to be an excellent decision.

“The entire Del Mar experience is absolutely exceptional,” Rosario remarked, noting his 286 career victories at the track. “The horsemen are outstanding, the competition level is extremely high, and there’s always quality horses running. The facility itself is world-class, and the coastal setting is simply magnificent.”

Relocating back to where he began his top-level riding career was a calculated move that placed Rosario among legendary figures like Bill Shoemaker in Del Mar’s rich history. Success in horse racing demands both natural talent and relentless dedication—qualities that have defined Rosario throughout his career and were clearly evident during this summer’s competition.

“We approached this season with the same determined work ethic we’ve always maintained,” Rosario explained. “My agent and I felt it was time to make Del Mar our primary base again, so we immediately began working horses each morning and putting in whatever effort necessary to excel. I’m passionate about this sport and love competing across the country, but achieving recognition here at Del Mar holds special significance. I’m proud of what we accomplished and grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”

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