Golden Gate Fields: Raul Cespedes, former jockey, dies

Former jockey Raul Cespedes died of cancer Monday at his home in Fontana, Calif. He was 67.

A native of Santiago, Chile, Cespedes rode in his homeland as well as Panama and Mexico before coming to California in 1967, riding there until his retirement in 1982.

Cespedes won the 1969 San Francisco Mile with Wingover, the 1975 Albany Handicap with Pelegrin Sands and 1979 California Oaks with Whydidju, all at Golden Gate Fields.

Following his riding career, Cespedes served as a jockey agent.

Cespedes is survived by his sons Christopher, Jonathan, and Nelson, and a daughter, Angela.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Monday at McKay's Family Mortuary, 16918 Baseline Ave., in Fontana, Calif.