The North American Thoroughbred racing community is mourning the death of Robby Albarado, the accomplished jockey and National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame inductee. He was 52.
Albarado died on August 4 in Saratoga Springs, New York, following complications connected to a recent heart attack and subsequent heart surgery. Trainer Ken McPeek, a longtime friend and professional associate, confirmed the news. Even after stepping away from race riding, Albarado had remained part of McPeek’s operation, exercising horses and sharing his experience with younger riders.
Born in Louisiana, Albarado built a career that lasted more than 30 years and produced 5,222 victories. His mounts earned over $221 million in prize money, placing him among the most successful riders of his generation.
His biggest moments came on some of American racing’s most important stages. Albarado won the Preakness Stakes twice: first aboard Curlin in 2007 and later with Swiss Skydiver in 2020. His successful partnership with Curlin also included a victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, while he played a key role in the career of champion Mineshaft during the horse’s Horse of the Year campaign.
Churchill Downs was another venue closely associated with Albarado’s career. He became one of the track’s leading jockeys, earning numerous stakes wins and developing a reputation for reliability, patience, and a strong understanding of the horses he rode.
Albarado retired from competitive racing in 2021, but his involvement in the sport did not end. He continued to work in the mornings for McPeek’s stable and remained a respected presence around the barn area.
Tributes have followed from across the racing industry, with colleagues remembering not only his achievements in major races but also his professionalism and commitment to the sport. Albarado leaves behind a legacy defined by elite performances, long-standing partnerships with leading trainers, and the respect of the racing community.
