Nicodemus, Hall of Fame Quarter Horse jockey, dies at 73

Jerry Nicodemus, a revered Quarter Horse jockey who won three runnings of the All American Futurity, died Wednesday at his home in Ruidoso, N.M., according to a notice from Ruidoso Downs. He was 73.

Nicodemus is a member of the American Quarter Horse Association’s Hall of Fame.

“He was a great friend to so many people within the racing industry, and we are all shocked and saddened by his passing,” Jeff True, president of Ruidoso, said in a statement. “His accomplishments on the racetrack are legendary, and the humble way he approached his success will always be remembered.

“Truly a Quarter Horse legend.”

Nicodemus won the All American Futurity at Ruidoso Downs aboard Three Oh’s in 1968, Rocket Wrangler in 1970, and Ronas Ryon in 1986. He also won four runnings of the Champion of Champions at Los Alamitos, including two aboard Dash for Cash in 1976 and 1977.

Nicodemus retired in 1993 and worked as a steward in New Mexico. During his career, he won 1,252 races from 6,317 starts for mount earnings of $18.8 million, according to statistics provided by Ruidoso.

Nicodemus and Dash for Cash are featured in a life-size bronze statue outside the offices of the AQHA, according to Ruidoso.