Velazquez Stepping Down as Chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild

[Wandering Eyes]

Johnny Velazquez, who has served as Chairman of the Jockeys' Guild for more than 20 years and as Co-Chair with Mike Smith since 2018, will be stepping down from that role, the organization announced Thursday.

The members have elected Smith and Javier Castellano as Co-Chairs; Joe Bravo, James Flores, and Julien Leparoux as Co-Vice Chairs; Tyler Gaffalione as Secretary; and Julien Leparoux as Treasurer. In addition, Alex Birzer, James Graham, Rodney Prescott, and Velazquez will serve on the Board of Directors.

Velazquez will also remain actively involved with the Guild as a Board member.

“There are absolutely no words to adequately recognize Johnny Velazquez and all that he has done,” said Hall of Fame jockey and longtime Guild Co-Chair Smith. “On behalf of the Guild and our members, we cannot thank him enough for his unwavering commitment, endless time, and relentless effort, not only on behalf of the jockeys and the Guild, but the industry as a whole. Although Johnny is stepping down as Co-Chair, he will remain on the Board and be active in the organization.”

“I am proud of the strides that have been made in the areas of respect for the riders and the benefits that have been achieved over the years I presided as Chairman and as Co-Chairman of the Guild,” said Velazquez. “I look forward to being a part of the Guild and helping any way I can as a new generation takes the helm.”

“I am so honored and appreciate Johnny, along with our Board, for having the confidence in me to join Mike as Co-Chair,” said Castellano. “Every single jockey is forever indebted to Johnny for where we are today. I am committed to representing the jockeys and the Guild in the best way possible.”

“It has been my privilege to know Johnny personally for more than 30 years and worked with him closely for almost two decades as Chairman of the Guild,” said Terry Meyocks, President and CEO. “Through his leadership, the Guild was able to overcome many challenges and regain the respect of the industry leaders. I admire him and hold him in the highest regard and greatly appreciate all he has done for the jockeys and the industry. He has been, and will continue to be, an integral member of the Guild.”

The post Velazquez Stepping Down as Chairman of the Jockeys’ Guild appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

View the full article