As 2023 Eclipse Awards Approach, Horse Racing World Unveils Contenders for Top Jockey Honors- Here’s All You Need to Know

The 2023 Eclipse Awards is on the horizon, to recognize and felicitate the domineering excellence in Thoroughbred horse racing in the past year. Going forth with its 53rd edition that will unfold on January 25, the event will present awards in various categories. In a recent disclosure, the contenders for the top jockey honors are now revealed.

At the 2023 Eclipse Awards, it will recognize the winners in 17 horse and human categories. It will be topped by the ultimate announcement of the 2023 Horse of the Year. With the revelation of the jockey finalists, here’s what you need to know about them.

Finalists for Outstanding Jockey

The official Instagram handle of NYRA, @thenyra, which is a premium sports venue operating some of the top-notch thoroughbred horse racing tracks, revealed the names of the 2023 Eclipse Awards finalists for outstanding jockeys. The caption of the post reads, ”The 2023 Eclipse Awards are almost here and the jockey category is looking gooood. Congratulations to these New York winners on incredible years! Who has your vote?”

The three names include Irad Ortiz, Tyler Gaffalione, and Flavien Prat. FanDuelTV will be presenting the award to the ultimate winner in this category.

Irad Ortiz Jr., who has set single-season records with his mount earning has been a recipient of four Eclipse Awards across his career, and his eyes are set on the fifth award. He also topped the $6 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic.

Tyler Gaffalione’s mount earnings have the second-ranking. He is known for accumulating 23 graded stakes and has won 270 races in 2023. Flavien Prat has garnered the third best among riders while winning 183 races last year which also includes the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf.

A look at the details of the 2023 Eclipse Awards

The 53rd Annual Eclipse Awards Ceremony will take place on Jan. 25 at The Breakers Palm Beach in Florida. 250 eligible voters from the NTRA took part in the process of identifying the finalists with the top three selections in each category.

Read More: Horse Racing Legends Cody’s Wish, White Abarrio, and More Set to Contend for Prestigious Eclipse Award

Named after Eclipse which is the great 18th-century racehorse, during the live show this year, Paul Calia will be receiving the 2023 Horseplayer of the Year award. As the event is soon approaching, it is creating excitement among contestants and fans to witness the culmination.

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