Bravo wins Mike Venezia Memorial Award

Joe Bravo won the Mike Venezia Memorial Award, presented annually to the jockey who best exemplifies extraordinary sportsmanship and citizenship.

Bravo, 46, won the award following an online vote of racing fans. He beat out fellow nominees Javier Castellano, Irad Ortiz Jr., Jose Ortiz, and Manny Franco.

"Honestly, it's such an honor to be able to receive this award," Bravo said in a press release issued by the New York Racing Association. “I'm shocked it wasn't a four-person dead heat because each of the guys I was nominated with are all great and deserving to win as well. When you look at the some of the past winners of this award, including Hall of Famers like Angel Cordero Jr., Ramon Dominguez, and Edgar Prado, it's truly an honor."

Bravo has won 5,263 races in a career that began in 1988. He was the dominant rider on the New Jersey circuit for more than a decade. He has spent more time on the New York circuit in recent years and last month won the Grade 1 Carter Handicap at Aqueduct aboard Army Mule.

The Venezia Award is named in honor of the jockey who died in a spill at Belmont Park in 1988. Venezia won more than 2,300 races during his 25-year career.

Bravo will be presented the award on the May 28 Memorial Day card following the third race.