(Jockey Mario Gutierrez / Photo by Coady Media)

Editor’s Note:

On Tuesday afternoon, I made my way to the great Midwest racing oasis, better known as Horseshoe Indianapolis. I was in Chicago over the weekend, to celebrate a close friend’s 66th birthday. And, I am headed to Columbus, OH to watch my grandsons — 2 of the 4 — play baseball for the weekend. Seemed only natural to make a little summer time detour to see some of the greatest horse people in the world that operate “The Shoe,” and get a little racing / sunshine on my shoulders.

When I looked down at the past performances, I noted that jockey deluxe — Mario Gutierrez — had a mount in the 5th race — a 1-mile claiming event over the plush, beautiful green, green grass of home.

I have always admired the riding style of this man.

Always, from an early age and an early appearance in the United States upon his arrival from his native Mexico, Mario Gutierrez seemed to have a riding style that seemingly got the most and best from his mounts.

He found his way to Southern California, initially.

Found his way into the heart and plans of trainer Doug O’Neill, too.

For that matter, Gutierrez found himself as the named jockey for a couple of nice colts by the names of I’ll Have Another and Nyquist for O’Neill.

And, for the record, Gutierrez found himself in the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs twice on the first Saturday in May with both of those aforementioned runners.

On Tuesday, I and the chance to catch up with Mario. And, I didn’t let the chance pass me up. I found my way to him in the paddock for a quick interview.

I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed making the introduction with the affable, polite, courteous and talented young race rider.

On Tuesday, Mario joined the likes of Kent Desormeaux, Calvin Borel, John Velazquez, and Mike Smith as multiple winners of the Kentucky Derby to ride at Horseshoe Indianapolis.

It was fun. Take a listen.