@winningstride: IRAD ORTIZ JR. SHARES POSITIVE UPDATE AFTER SUCCESSFUL SURGERY By WinningStride Every Stride Tells a Story Some encouraging news from Irad Ortiz Jr. as Breeders’ Cup weekend gets underway at Keeneland. On Thursday, October 29, the Puerto Rican jockey shared a photograph from his hospital bed on social media, confirming that his surgery was successful. “Surgery was successful.” Irad also said he was ready to watch his friends at the Breeders’ Cup races and wished everyone a safe weekend. The five-time Eclipse Award-winning jockey suffered a fractured left ankle on October 22 during the ninth race at Keeneland. His mount, the two-year-old filly She’s Good Trouble, stumbled shortly after leaving the starting gate, unseating him. The injury came just 20 days after Irad returned to competition on October 2, following nearly two months away from racing due to an injury suffered at Saratoga on August 8. The latest setback forced him to miss this weekend’s Breeders’ Cup, where he had been expected to ride several major contenders, including Rhetorical, Splendora, and Further Ado. Although he won’t be competing this weekend, it’s encouraging to see him smiling and in good spirits following his operation. And on a personal note, Irad, I just want to say, take your time, champ. There’s no need to rush anything. Focus on your recovery, put your health first, and give yourself all the time you need to heal. Racing will still be here when you’re ready. Wishing you a smooth and complete recovery! Photo credit: Irad Ortiz Jr. / Social Media #winningstride #EveryStrideTellsAStory #IradOrtizJr #BreedersCup #HorseRacing

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Friday 30 October 2026 19:00:00 GMT