Irad Ortiz Jr was recognized by Puerto Rican Governor Jenniffer González-Colón on May 12 for his historic second-place finish in the 152nd Kentucky Derby.
What happened?
Irad Ortiz Jr and his brother Jose Ortiz made history with a one-two finish in the Kentucky Derby on May 2.
Why it matters for Irad Ortiz Jr
The honor is a testament to Irad Ortiz Jr's skill as a jockey, with Governor González-Colón praising the Ortiz brothers for elevating Puerto Rico's name in the world of horse racing.
Irad Ortiz Jr began riding stateside in 2011 and has since become a prominent figure in horse racing.
What comes next?
Irad Ortiz Jr will compete in the Preakness on a different mount, with Jose Ortiz also participating in the event.
The Ortiz brothers attended the Escuela Vocacional Hipica jockey school in Puerto Rico, where they developed their skills as jockeys.
On May 2, Jose Ortiz won the Kentucky Derby aboard Golden Tempo, while Irad Ortiz Jr finished second on Renegade.
Governor González-Colón wrote on Facebook that she was proud of the Ortiz brothers' talent and discipline.
Irad Ortiz Jr's finish in the Kentucky Derby was his best result from 10 starts.
The Preakness will take place soon, with Irad Ortiz Jr riding Talkin, trained by Danny Gargan.
Jose Ortiz will ride Chip Honcho for trainer Steve Asmussen in the Preakness.
The Ortiz brothers' historic finish in the Kentucky Derby has brought attention to their skills as jockeys.
Irad Ortiz Jr's recognition by the Governor of Puerto Rico is a significant honor for the jockey.
The event on May 12 was a celebration of the Ortiz brothers' achievements in horse racing.
Irad Ortiz Jr and Jose Ortiz have made a name for themselves in the world of horse racing, with their recent finish in the Kentucky Derby being a notable achievement.