Diego Herrera looks toward Gulfstream after securing his first Grade 1 victory

At 21 years old, he takes the risk and changes racetracks, seizing the momentum of having won the Santa Anita Handicap

Diego Herrera (right) is experiencing a magical moment / BENOIT PHOTO

HALLANDALE BEACH, Florida—At 21 years old, jockey Diego Herrera is fresh off the most significant moment of his young career. His victory last Saturday in the Santa Anita Handicap aboard British Isles (Justify) not only provided his first G1 triumph but also served as the final motivation to take a key step in his trajectory: moving to Florida to continue his campaign at Gulfstream Park.

“It’s the big daddy,” Herrera summarized when referring to the historic stakes at Santa Anita Park, one of the most emblematic races on the American calendar.

The success arrived at a special time for the Inglewood, California-born rider, who now feels it is time to broaden his horizons. After riding British Isles in the Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1) this January at Gulfstream Park, Herrera was struck by the atmosphere of the local track.

That experience proved decisive. “I’m looking for more opportunities to ride and continue gaining experience,” the jockey explained. “Sometimes things here can get a bit light, with smaller fields. When I went to Gulfstream for the Pegasus, I really liked the environment, I liked the racetrack, I spoke with Kevin Meyocks, and it seemed like something worth trying.”

Specifically, Meyocks, one of the most renowned agents on the American circuit, will be the one to represent him in this new professional stage.

The decision implies a major shift for Herrera, who practically grew up among horses. His history with turf began at a very young age. “I’ve been riding ponies since I was probably 6,” he recalled. “By 12, I was already racing Quarter Horses, and at 15 and a half, I obtained my license to ride in races.”

Since then, his growth has been constant. According to his statistics, he has accumulated 257 victories since 2021, a figure that reflects the rapid progression of a rider who has established himself within the competitive California circuit.

Among his most important wins prior to the recent G1 are the 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Stakes (G3) with Unrivaled Time (Not This Time) and the 2024 Autumn Miss Stakes (G3) with Watchtower (Demarchelier), performances that positioned him among the young jockeys to watch.

Now, the victory in the Big ‘Cap marks a turning point.

Herrera plans to settle in Florida around March 19, with the hope that the new setting will allow him to multiply his opportunities at one of the most active racetracks in the country.

“I love this sport,” he stated. “I am very excited about what’s coming.”

With a Grade 1 already under his belt, plenty of youth, and a new base at Gulfstream Park, everything indicates that Diego Herrera is ready to attempt taking his career to an even higher level.

Would you like me to translate any other reports regarding the move of California-based jockeys to the Florida circuit?