Old Dogs / New Tricks

Just about the time you think you've seen everything; wonderful things appear. 2025 has me scratching my head and looking forward to the hidden gems that will surely keep us on the edge of our seats.

Perry Ouzts is the 5th leading rider in Norths America, and 7th in the world. - Closing in on 71 years old, Ouzts is still swinging for the fences. Climbing the ladder to move up another spot on the all-time win list is getting tough. - But Perry has his sights set on another milestone for total number of mounts ridden. - Russell Baze has 53,578, and Perry Ouzts has 53,476. He is only 102 mounts away from tying Baze and 103 from being the rider with the most mounts in a career. Just when it looked like the list was not going to be moving much, Ouzts digs down deep and competes at his highest level at all times. Poised to pass Baze with a little racing luck he should pass this milestone in early July.

Just as I was writing this article, I looked up and saw Perry on an 8-1 shot at Turfway Park jogging on the track. When he turned for home in the familiar red and white silks of Larry Smith, he drew off and won by daylight.

Just when you think you've seen it all. Along comes a rider closing in on 71 years old who rides like a jockey 40+ years his younger. I can't wait to see Perry notch another win his storied career. Having a living legend in your own backyard is a true pleasure to behold. He wants his records at Belterra Park as he sometimes still refers to as River Downs that he held sway for decades. Perry Ouzts is a special piece of Thoroughbred racing. Rare is it to find someone his age plying their trade and still winning races like he always has. - Be sure and keep track and be there on the day when Ouzts notches his last career milestone. - Long may you ride, my friend.