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

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.

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 ...

Mike Smith will turn 59 in August, but is showing no signs of wanting to retire. The Hall of Fame jockey rode Justify to the Triple Crown in 2018 and will try to win Derby 151 aboard Rodriguez.