Brown leads NYRA circuit in wins, earnings for 2015

OZONE PARK, N.Y. – Chad Brown was the leading trainer on the New York Racing Association circuit in 2015 in both wins (131) and purse money ($12,766,542). Todd Pletcher, the leading trainer in North American earnings each year since 2010, was second in both categories in 2015 with 123 wins and $12,086,440 in purses.

It was the first time Brown led either category for a year on this circuit.

“We had an outstanding year, both in New York and outside of New York,” Brown said. “Obviously, New York anchors our entire program. That’s where our base is. They have a terrific program and great facilities to train and race at, and we’re grateful to be a huge part of it.”

Brown credited his staff, including assistants Cherie DeVaux, Jorge Abreu, Reynaldo Abreu, and Jose Hernandez, for his successful 2015.

David Jacobson, who led this circuit in wins the previous three years, was third with 89 wins. Rudy Rodriguez and Linda Rice tied for fourth with 81 wins apiece.

Irad Ortiz Jr. was the leading rider on this circuit for the second consecutive year with 281 wins, three more than he had in 2014. Ortiz also was the leading rider in purse money won with $19,159,036. Jose Ortiz (238), Javier Castellano (174), Manny Franco (147), and Junior Alvarado (138) completed the top five in wins.

Michael Dubb topped Jacobson for the most wins by an owner (58-55), while Godolphin Racing topped Dubb in purse money won with $4,777,078 to Dubb’s $4,574,203.