International Jockey Spencer to Ride in California This Winter
Jamie Spencer, an acclaimed international jockey celebrated for his numerous victories across Great Britain and Ireland, is initiating a prolonged tenure at Santa Anita this winter. With a remarkable career spanning over 2,000 wins, Spencer's arrival marks his first full-time commitment to racing in North America. This transition follows a recent Grade 1 triumph at Woodbine, underscoring his continued prowess in the sport. His presence at Santa Anita is poised to bring an exciting new dynamic to the California racing scene.
Spencer, a 46-year-old native of Ireland, officially commenced his California racing journey on Saturday. This move follows his impressive victory aboard Arabian Crown in the Grade 1 Canadian International at Woodbine, where he represented Godolphin and trainer Charlie Appleby. His decision to relocate stems from the seasonal slowdown in European racing during the winter months. Rather than taking his usual break from November to February, Spencer opted for a fresh challenge in California, aiming to compete through the Santa Anita meet, then potentially Del Mar, and continue through the following winter.
On his inaugural day at Santa Anita, Spencer had two mounts: Ellen Jorth in the fifth race, trained by Phil D’Amato, and Santa Barbarian in the tenth, trained by Ryan Hanson. While this marks his first full-time engagement in North America, Spencer is no stranger to success on this continent, having secured 19 victories, including 10 Grade 1 races, across the U.S. and Canada. He has also participated in 11 Breeders’ Cup programs, several of which were held at Santa Anita. A notable moment in his Breeders’ Cup history includes a narrow second-place finish in the 2014 Classic aboard Toast of New York, an event he humorously described as being “beat a pixel.”
Spencer's illustrious career began at an early age; at 17, he became the youngest jockey to win a classic race, guiding Tarascon to victory in the Irish 1,000 Guineas in 1998. He went on to achieve champion jockey status in Ireland in 2004 and in Great Britain in 2005 and 2007. During his California stay, Spencer will be represented by agent Ryan Cosato. The idea for this move emerged during the summer, with Spencer initially contacting trainer Simon Callaghan, who then facilitated the connection with Cosato. Spencer emphasized that he is not setting specific goals for his time in California, but rather hoping for a successful run that would encourage him to extend his stay.
Despite his commitment to Santa Anita, Spencer will make a brief departure to Australia on October 17 for the Group 1, $4.5 million Caulfield Cup, where he is slated to ride Royal Supremacy. Upon his return, he is scheduled for his first stakes mount at Santa Anita on Monday, a holiday program featuring the Swingtime Stakes. In this race, he will ride Tirupati for trainer Jonathan Thomas, with Tirupati currently listed as the 5-2 favorite in an eight-horse field. This blend of international and local engagements highlights Spencer's diverse and ambitious racing schedule, bringing his considerable talent to new venues and challenges.
Spencer's venture into the North American racing circuit signifies a new chapter in his distinguished career. His decision to move from Europe's quieter winter season to California's vibrant racing environment reflects a desire for fresh competition and continued success. With a history of significant wins and champion titles, Spencer's presence is expected to enhance the competitive landscape at Santa Anita and potentially Del Mar, as he aims for an extended stay based on positive outcomes. His immediate schedule includes key races, both domestically and internationally, underscoring his enduring passion and commitment to the sport.