Gonzalez becoming big man in the saddle

The 19-year-old jockey Ricardo Gonzalez is becoming the go-to guy in big races on the Northern California racing circuit.

Gonzalez won the biggest races for older horses at the recently concluded Golden Gate Fields meeting, guiding G. G. Ryder to wins in the Grade 3 San Francisco Mile on turf and Grade 3 All American on the main track.

Last Saturday, he and Tribal Gal teamed up to win the $100,000 Oak Tree Distaff at Pleasanton for the second straight year. Last year, she went wire to wire while scoring a $28 upset. This year, Gonzalez had her sit patiently just off the pacesetting Frisco Fog before they pulled away for a $2.60 win.

Gonzalez said patience is the trait he’s most improved on since beginning his career as a 17-year-old apprentice. Now, Gonzalez has learned how to combine the right amount of aggressiveness and patience to get the most out of a horse.

“I’ve learned to be more patient,” he said. “I used to make stupid moves.”

Gonzalez finished second to Russell Baze in the jockey standings at last fall’s Golden Gate Fields meet and at the recent winter-spring meet. He is second in the Oak Tree at Pleasanton standings with 10 victories through the first eight days, two behind Juan Hernandez, who took the lead with a pair of victories Sunday.

Among Gonzalez’s attributes is that he weighs only 97 pounds. With his light frame, Gonzalez doesn’t have to worry about health issues from trying to keep his weight down.

“Actually, I eat a lot, and maybe I gain a pound, but it comes right off,” he said.

Despite his success in Northern California, Gonzalez has no desire to ride for the big money in Southern California. At least not yet.

“Being 19 years old, I don’t want to make a decision too fast,” he said. “I’m very comfortable here. I love the people here, the races, the horses.”