Pat Day was an accomplished athlete in Thoroughbred racing. He was born in 1953, in Brush Colorado, and despite his small physique, Pat had amazing love for athletics. As a result, he joined a wrestling program during his high school days and went on to become a state champion in his weight category. After high school, Day sought a new challenge in thoroughbred racing. His first win came at Prescott Downs, Arizona, in 1973. Refusing to be hampered by weight challenges, Pat Day climbed up the ladder in the Midwest, and by 1970s, he was already topping the national charts. He would later become a high-profile jockey at Churchill Downs, earning a
spot on the list of the greatest horse riders of all time.
Known for his conservative riding tactics, Pat would wait until it was too late to push to the end. His tactics definitely worked as he claims ownership to one of the greatest upsets in the history of Kentucky Derby– it occurred in 1992. In his resume, he remains to be the all-time leading rider at both Churchill Downs and Keeneland. He won four Breeder’s Cup Classics, nine Triple Crown titles, Canadian Triple Crown. He is also a member of the Hall of Fame.
