CINCINNATI — Perry Ouzts is a horse racing legend, though most have probably never heard of his name.
At the spry age of 67, he’s competed in nearly 52,000 races — winning more than 7,000 — a number that is only set to grow as the Belterra Park racer stays in the saddle.
What You Need To Know
- Jockey Perry Ouzts is sixth in all-time wins in the U.S. and Canada
- Ouzts said winning continues to drive him, even at 67
- His career started at 18 in 1973, close to half a century ago
- He hopes to continue to race as long as he’s health and competitive
One of the winningest jockeys in horse racing history was found at Belterra Park on a hot summer day
“I’m the sixth winningest rider in the United States and Canada and number 10 in the world,” Ouzts said.
He’s been racing since 1973, starting at just 18 years old.
“I was always real small, when I was in school, and I never did grow up much,” he said.
Using that small frame to his advantage he’s been fueled by one thing — winning.
“I get the biggest thrill out of winning,” Ouzts said. “I’ve never found anything in life that you can get that same thrill. I still get the same thrill when I started in 1973. I get the same thrill every time.”
He still brings a following of fans.
Kentucky resident and racing fan Ricky Dennie always roots for Ouzts.
“I’ve been watching him since I was four or five years old,” Dennie said. “Mom and Dad took me to Antonia. And I’ve been (watching) ever since. If he’s running, I’m betting him.”
With six races the day before his 67th birthday, he shows no signs of slowing down — even if the outcomes don’t always go his way.
“I just go to work every day and hope I can win,” Ouzts said. “I don’t really think about the accomplishments very much. It’s just another day at work.”
He said staying healthy has been his secret, and as long as that holds up so will his career.
“Maybe a couple years, hopefully," Ouzts said. "I’m gonna retire one day, but just not today.”