all in The Life

America’s Best Racing has launched a monthly series to celebrate women in racing, explore the challenges they face in what has been a male-dominated industry, and highlight their achievements.

“I don’t know if we each have a destiny, or if we’re all just floating around accidental-like on a breeze, but I think maybe it’s both.” – Forrest Gump

One of the best 2-year-old fillies racing in Kentucky this year is named in honor of one of the best places to congregate at Kentucky’s two signature racetracks, and the gentleman who worked there for decades.

Jockey Junior Alvarado’s career has blossomed since he began riding regularly for Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott.

Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith took a minute to remember his very first horse. He recounted his many adventures with a little black pony that his father bought him. The pony was named Stormy and taught him many lessons, as only an ornery Shetland could. Smith said, “Stormy had a ‘little man syndrome.’ I’d saddle him up and ride him after school or any chance I got. I’d learn how to post and how to stay on and not get bounced off.”

You could say trainer Riley Mott has been waiting for this moment for most of his life. Mott, 33, will saddle his first Breeders' Cup starter at this year's World Championships. He will be represented by a solid contender in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Oct.

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