Newcomer Edwin Gonzalez showing he belongs

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Edwin Gonzalez, a major force since joining the local jockey colony at the start of the spring-summer meet, had his best day here yet, winning five races on Thursday, including the third event aboard K’s Running Free. The five-bagger moved him into third place in the standings entering Friday’s action, just two victories behind co-leaders Edgard Zayas and Paco Lopez.

Gonzalez rode K’s Running Free for trainer Saffie Joseph Jr.

“Horses run for him,” said Joseph, who is using Gonzalez more and more lately. “Whenever you go somewhere new, no matter how good your stats are coming in, a rider has to prove himself. And Edwin’s made the most of his opportunity here so far.”

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Gonzalez’s book is handled by Kevin Meyocks, who represents Luca Panici as well.

“Hard work and determination are the keys to Edwin’s success,” Meyocks said. “He’s very professional. And also a family man, which I really like about him. He’s always done well, no matter where he’s ridden. He’s been a high-percent jockey for the last five or six years and had a couple of six-win days at Penn National before he got here.”

Gonzalez, who will be sidelined Sunday as well as next Thursday and Friday while serving a three-day riding suspension, plans to remain locally on a permanent basis, according to Meyocks.

“He’s moved to South Florida and is going to ride here full time moving forward,” Meyocks said.