Robby Albarado, Renowned Jockey, Passes Away at 52

Robby Albarado, a former jockey celebrated for his significant achievements in horse racing, has died at the age of 52. Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, confirmed the sad news after hearing from Albarado’s friends and family.

According to trainer Kenny McPeek, Albarado was in the hospital recently to have a stent inserted near his heart, aiming to address a blockage. Churchill Downs president Mike Anderson expressed his sorrow, saying, “Saying goodbye to someone who left us too soon is extremely difficult. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and numerous friends.”

Albarado is fondly remembered for his victories in the Preakness and Breeders’ Cup Classic in 2007 with Curlin. He also claimed the second leg of the Triple Crown riding Swiss Skydiver in 2020. Throughout his career, he achieved two more Breeders’ Cup wins, contributing to a remarkable total of 5,222 victories.

After retiring in 2022, Albarado worked with McPeek, who had trained Swiss Skydiver. Albarado began his career on bush tracks in Lafayette, Louisiana, eventually turning professional and participating in over 34,000 races. His career earnings totaled just over $221 million.