Jockey Alex Solis Announces Retirement

DEL MAR, Calif. (Nov. 26, 2017) – Hall of Fame jockey Alex Solis announced his retirement on Sunday.

Solis, 53, said his decision was based on a slow recovery from August hip replacement surgery and the desire to spend time with his family, including two grandchildren.

Solis was elected to the Racing Hall of Fame in 2015. He retired with 5,035 races won and horses he rode earned more than $238 million, 10th on the all-time list.

Solis, a native of Panama, won three Breeders’ Cup races and the 2004 Dubai World Cup aboard Pleasantly Perfect, but told TVG that not winning a Kentucky Derby was his greatest career disappointment. He rode California-bred Snow Chief to a win in the 1986 Preakness Stakes. He won the 2006 Santa Anita Derby aboard Cal-bred Brother Derek.

Since 2015, Solis has served on the California Horse Racing Board, filling a seat vacated by actress Bo Derek. He said he would take some time before determining his next career move, but said he wants to remain in racing.

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