Saratoga: Velazquez, Bailey, Cordero celebrated

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SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - About 90 minutes before his winning ride in the first race aboard Havana on Friday, John Velazquez was part of a ceremony held by the New York Racing Association to honor the three winningest riders at Saratoga.

NYRA unveiled a bronze plaque with the likenesses of Velazquez, Jerry Bailey, and Angel Cordero and their accomplishments at Saratoga. The three riders were also given red blazers.

Earlier this meet, Velazquez became the winningest rider in Saratoga history and his win aboard Havana was his 723rd at the Spa. Jerry Bailey is second with 693 followed by Angel Cordero Jr. at 649.

In a ceremony held before the public just outside the paddock, all three riders thanked the fans for their support as well as trainers such as Todd Pletcher, D. Wayne Lukas, Bill Mott, and David Donk, who attended the ceremony.

The bronze plaque will be permanently displayed outside the jockey's room.

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