JR: John and I go way back, starting with my time
in California. He gave me many opportunities. I feel
really grateful. And I think it's another step forward
in my career—a big step for me. I used to watch the
Breeders' Cup and races like that [as a kid]. I never
thought in my life I'd be in this position.
JR: I think so—there's not many jockeys who come
out of the Dominican Republic. Everybody growing
up there, they want to play baseball. For me, being
so successful, winning all those races, definitely
gives the kids something to look up to.
JR: Yeah, I did to begin with. It was a complete
surprise. He just congratulated me for winning
the Kentucky Derby.
TDN: Where does your Breeders' Cup Classic win
for John Sadler fit into your career, taking into account
your Dubai World Cup and Kentucky Derby wins?
TDN: You're the most successful jockey to come
out of the Dominican Republic. Do you think your
achievements have influenced the kids back there?
TDN: Talking of the Kentucky Derby, I hear the president
of the Dominican Republic called you after your Derby win.
What did you talk about? Did you think it was a hoax?