Without a doubt, Jerry Bailey is considered to be one of the greatest jockeys of all time, having won six Triple Crown races, a record 14 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships in addition to countless other honors and awards. As a near flawless technical rider recognized for his focus and determination, Bailey has won more than 5,700 races and is the second all time money winning rider with over $280 million in purses earned.
Inducted into the Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 1995, Jerry has accomplished more than most jockeys dream about in a lifetime and still manages to maintain his drive to succeed.
A native of Dallas, Texas, Jerry Bailey was just 17 years-old when he embarked on his successful riding career at New Mexico's Sunland Park. It was there that in 1974 he won with his first mount, Fetch. After a successful run on the Midwest, Southwest, Florida, and New Jersey circuits, Bailey relocated to New York in 1982. Seven years later, he achieved national prominence with his performance aboard Proper Reality in the 1989 Metropolitan Mile Handicap. That same year, Jerry helped bring safety vests to the forefront of the sport with the assistance of Dr. Manuel Gilman and Tipparary Vests. Today, almost all jockeys and exercise riders wear safety vests which has undeniably saved dozens of lives.
Having met his wife in 1984 after riding a horse named "Time for a Change" Jerry was certain that it was fate that brought them together. Today, Jerry and Suzee have a 12 year-old son named Justin and are active in several charity organizations including The Breast Cancer Foundation and The Backstretch Childcare Center. As a modest and courteous competitor, Jerry hopes to be remembered "as a fair person". For such a sportsman, there is no greater honor.
Winner of six Triple Crown Races 
