I feel too good." Smith, who's won the Derby twice, with Giacomo in 2005 and Triple Crown winner Justify in 2018, rode in his first Kentucky Derby 41 years ago aboard Pine Circle in 1984.

50-something jockeys Mike Smith and John Velazquez have seen it all over the decades at Churchill Downs. This year, both were sidelined at the last minute.

Rodriguez jockey Mike Smith, 58, with fellow Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, can add to Kentucky Derby history on Saturday night at Churchill Downs.

Mike Smith ‘Ready to Play’ in Florida Derby Hall of Famer subs for injured Tyler Gaffalione on Bob Baffert-trained Madaket Road. Edited Press Release Gulfstream Park Release Date: March 28, 2025 ...