Crawford working his way to #1

The first half of the racing season at Fort Erie has gone well for jockey Juan Crawford. Last Tuesday, he finished the day with four wins out of his five starts on Fort Erie’s 7 race card. Today he added two more wins to his belt. The veteran jockey of 28 years is working his way towards being Fort Erie's leading rider. 

After racing on August 10, Crawford’s sitting at second place with 19 wins, behind current leading rider Melanie Pinto with 21 wins so far this season.

“I’ve been getting more competitive horses this year, and I’ve been making use of every shot. Whether it’s a longshot or a favourite, I want to give a fair chance to every horse that I get,” said Crawford. “I’m grateful to all the trainers and owners that keep backing me, and my family who are always with me and making me ride harder. I also want to thank the public who keep backing me. Even though they’re not here, they are still supporting me and hoping that I give them my best effort all the time.”

When asked about his experience with racing without spectators this season, Crawford said it’s good for some of the horses that are a little more nervous, as the stands are quieter and similar to what they are used to for training. At the same time, there are some horses that enjoy the fans because it excites them. “Either way, I miss having the fans. Having people here and enjoying themselves, they are part of the horseracing that we know and grew up with.”

When looking towards the rest of the season, Crawford says, “I just hope to continue going safely, and to keep getting better rides, both at Fort Erie and Woodbine.”

Monday’s races at Fort Erie featured the $35,000 Massachusetts Bred Maiden Stakes, won by race favourite The Drs Slippers. Jockey Emile Ramsammy steered the three-year-old gelding first across the finish line for trainer Karl Grusmark and owner Joseph DiRico.

Spectator-free racing continues on Tuesday at 1:10pm. Watch online at http://forterieracing.com/streaming-and-replays