Laurel jockey Serpa headed to China for riding competition

Jockey Angel Serpa will represent Laurel Park and the United States during the 16th China Wuhan International Horse Racing Festival in China on Oct. 25-27.

Serpa, 30, was an Eclipse Awards finalist for apprentice jockey in 2010. He is in the midst of a comeback after breaking his ankle in a gate accident at Laurel last December. He returned to riding in late June and is 6 for 61 since.

“Since I came back from the injury, I feel good,” Serpa said. “It hurts a little bit when it’s cold, but right now I’m feeling great and we keep going. Never give up.”

Wuhan is the capital of China’s Hubei province and has a population of almost 11 million. It is located about 515 miles west of Shanghai.

“I can’t wait to leave,” Serpa said. “Everyone wants to be able to go do something like this.”

A delegate from China recently visited Laurel and asked track officials if Laurel would be interested in recommending a rider to compete in the festival. The invitation was extended to Serpa, who plans to ride at Laurel throughout the winter.