Some of the most accomplished jockeys in the U.S., plus a top rider from Japan, have mounts in the 42nd running of the $7 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Classic Nov. 1 at Del Mar.

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.”