photo by: Coglianese Photos

It did not take long for apprentice Edgard Zayas to find success at racing’s most elite level of competition.

Gulfstream Park and Florida’s horsemen and breeders have reached an agreement that could allow a Malaysian casino company to use a Gulfstream racing permit to open a casino near downtown Miami, but the plan likely depends on substantial changes to the state’s gambling laws.

The partners announced the deal while state lawmakers are considering an overhaul of the state’s gambling laws at the behest of companies eager to open casinos in the south Florida market. Current law requires casinos to be located at racetracks, coupled with a racing permit.

photo by: Hoofprintsinc.com

Victor Carrasco established himself as one of racing’s most promising young riders in 2013, when he led all North American-based apprentice jockeys in bo

photo by: Barbara D. Livingston

He’s back in the saddle again!

photo by: Tom Keyser

In the span of five weeks last spring, jockey Joel Rosario accomplished more than most riders will achieve in their entire careers.

photo by: Barbara D. Livingston

Javier Castellano emerged as the dominant force among jockeys in 2013.

photo by: Barbara D. Livingston

Entering 2013 trainer Todd Pletcher led North American trainers in earnings seven times, including consecutively from 2010-2012.

photo by: Barbara D. Livingston

No matter the statistical category, Bill Mott was regularly among the training leaders in 2013.

photo by: Barbara D. Livingston

Few trainers closed out the year better than Hall of Famer Bob Baffert. Of his nine Grade 1 victories last year, seven came over the second half of 2013.

photo by: Horsephotos/NTRA

Owners and breeders Ken and Sarah Ramsey are no strangers to being recognized at the highest levels of the sport, having received the Eclipse Award as outstanding owner in both 2004 and 2011. The couple has never enjoyed a year like 2013, however.