Robby Albarado, a celebrated former jockey, passed away at the age of 52. Albarado is renowned for his remarkable achievements in horse racing, particularly winning the Preakness twice during his extensive career. The news of his death was confirmed by Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, following notifications from friends and family.
Albarado recently underwent a medical procedure to insert a stent to resolve a blockage near his heart. Trainer Kenny McPeek, who employed Albarado as an exercise rider after his retirement, shared details of his hospitalization. McPeek had also trained Swiss Skydiver, a horse Albarado rode to victory in the second leg of the Triple Crown.
“Saying goodbye to someone who left us too soon is extremely difficult,” Churchill Downs president Mike Anderson expressed in a formal statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and numerous friends.”
Albarado’s illustrious career includes notable victories with Curlin, such as the Preakness and the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 2007. He earned two additional Breeders’ Cup wins, contributing significantly to his impressive total of 5,222 career wins.
Originally hailing from Lafayette, Louisiana, Albarado started his riding career at local bush tracks. He transitioned to professional racing, participating in over 34,000 races and accumulating over $221 million in earnings. After retiring in 2022, Albarado continued his involvement in the sport by working with McPeek.