Kentucky Derby winner jockey Javier Castellano thanks Jesus Christ for his victory on the 16th attempt, as the veteran Venezuelan says he is ‘blessed’ with his dream triumph
- Mage had a 15-1 chance ahead of the 149th running of the 2023 Kentucky Derby
- The 4-foot-11 Venezuelan jockey had never won in his previous 15 derbies
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Victorious Kentucky Derby jockey Javier Castellano thanked His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ after Mage’s stunning victory on the showpiece.
The 4-foot-11 Venezuelan was in a graceful mood during a heartfelt interview as he trotted around the track following the life-changing result.
“First of all, Lord Jesus Christ, for giving me the chance to win the Derby – the dream journey for every jockey, trainer, every horse in the racing industry.
“I never give up, I always try my best, do the right thing. It took me a while to get there, but finally I got it. I am blessed.’
Patience had been a virtue for Castellano, who had raced in 15 Kentucky Derbies before finishing Saturday’s spectacle.
Javier Castellano beams with joy after winning the Kentucky Derby on his 16th attempt
Mage (No. 8) won the Kentucky Derby by beating Two Phil’s and favorite Angel Of Empire
Castellano kisses the Kentucky Derby trophy in the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs in KY.
“And really, to give me the chance, the horse, as he did today. The little magician, he did very well today. He has a lot of heart. It’s a small horse but a big heart.’
The Gustavo Delgado-trained stallion had 15-1 odds ahead of the $3 million race’s 149th running. Mage won the Derby ahead of Two Phil’s and favorite Angel Of Empire at Churchill Downs in Louisville.
He started at the back of the field at the start before Castellano Mage went wide to make a challenge into the turn. Mage countered and made a foot move to challenge Two Phil’s and kicked on with one more city to go.
Castellano’s brother, Abel, posted a message on Twitter also thanking God for His help in the shock victory.
“My brother will not wow the Kentucky Derby!!” he wrote. God is great. [Praise] Lord Jesus.’
The main event inevitably drew criticism from some given the deaths of seven horses leading up to the first race of the Triple Crown.