Joel Rosario Elected to United States Racing Hall of Fame Class of 2024

Joel Rosario, a renowned jockey from the Dominican Republic, has been elected to the United States Racing Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2024. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame announced the nine new inductees, which include Rosario and racehorses Gun Runner and Justify in the contemporary category.

Rosario, 39, has achieved remarkable success throughout his career, winning 3,604 races and ranking fourth all-time in North American purse earnings with an impressive $318,313,804. He was honored with the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey in 2021 and has triumphed in numerous prestigious races, including the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and 15 Breeders' Cup races. Rosario's notable victories include the Breeders' Cup Classic with champion Accelerate in 2018 and Horse of the Year Knicks Go in 2021.

Joining Rosario in the 2024 Hall of Fame class are two exceptional racehorses. Gun Runner, the 2017 Horse of the Year and Champion Older Male, and Justify, who became the 13th American Triple Crown winner in 2018, were both elected in their first year of eligibility. The Pre-1900 Historic Review Committee selected jockey Abe Hawkins and racehorses Aristides and Lecomte, while the Pillars of the Turf Committee chose Harry F. Guggenheim, Clement L. Hirsch, and Joe Hirsch.

Why this matters: The induction of Joel Rosario into the United States Racing Hall of Fame recognizes his outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport of horse racing. This honor not only celebrates Rosario's individual success but also highlights the global impact and diversity within the racing community.

The 2024 Hall of Fame inductees were selected by a nationwide voting panel of 177 members from a group of 17 finalists submitted by the Hall of Fame's Nominating Committee. The induction ceremony will take place on August 2, 2024, in Saratoga Springs, New York, where the new members will be enshrined and celebrated for their lasting impact on the sport of horse racing.

Key Takeaways

• Jockey Joel Rosario elected to U.S. Racing Hall of Fame class of 2024.
• Rosario has 3,604 wins and $318M in purse earnings, 4th all-time.
• Racehorses Gun Runner and Justify also elected in their first year.
• Induction ceremony to be held on August 2, 2024, in Saratoga Springs.
• Rosario's induction celebrates global diversity in the racing community.