Who Is Irad Ortiz Jr.? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on August 11, 1992, Irad Ortiz Jr. is currently 32 years old. Born and raised in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, Ortiz developed a passion for horse racing at a young age. He began his professional career after moving to the United States, and quickly made a name for himself in the competitive world of thoroughbred racing. By 2025, he will have ridden countless winners, solidifying his reputation and earning a loyal fanbase.
| Occupation | Other |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 11, 1992 |
| Age | 33 Years |
| Birth Place | Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | Puerto Rico |
Popularity
Irad Ortiz Jr.'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Irad Ortiz Jr. stands at a height of approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) and weighs around 115 pounds (52 kg). His athletic build and balance are critical attributes that contribute to his success as a jockey, allowing him to maintain control and maneuverability while racing at high speeds.
Ortiz began his professional riding career at Hipódromo Camarero in Puerto Rico on New Year's Day, 2011, winning 76 of 357 starts over the following months. In June, Pito Rosa, who works in the NYRA jockeys' room and was an old friend of Ortiz's grandfather, encouraged Ortiz to come to New York.
Rosa also found an agent for Ortiz and acted as a mentor while Ortiz was settling in. Ortiz rode his first race at Belmont Park on June 17 and won his first American race on June 24 aboard Millennium Jet. He would finish the year with 151 wins from 1,016 starts.
In February 2012, Ortiz "lost his bug", meaning he was no longer an apprentice and lost the weight allowance given to one. Even so, his success continued. In June 2012, Ortiz got his big break when trainer Kiaran McLaughlin put him on the filly Questing in an allowance race.
When the filly won, McLaughlin retained Ortiz for the Coaching Club American Oaks at Saratoga in what would become Ortiz's first Grade 1 victory. Ortiz and Questing would also win the Alabama Stakes, and Questing would earn the Eclipse Award for champion 3-year-old filly. Ortiz finished the year ranked #17 in North America by earnings.
He finished second in the Eclipse Award voting for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey; his loss may have been due to spending the majority of the year as a journeyman rider.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
In terms of his personal life, Irad Ortiz Jr. is known to keep his relationships private. As of 2025, he has been linked to various individuals within the horse racing community, but nothing has been officially confirmed regarding a serious boyfriend or girlfriend. Ortiz is primarily focused on his career and balancing his personal commitments, which has led to speculation about his dating life.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Irad Ortiz Jr.'s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This impressive fortune has been accrued through his successful racing career, with his annual earnings estimated to be over $2 million. Ortiz's income primarily comes from prize winnings, sponsorship deals, and appearance fees. His talent and consistent performance in various prestigious races continue to enhance his financial standing.
Ortiz won the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey in 2018 after leading the jockey list by both number of wins and earnings. He had four winners at the 2019 Breeders' Cup event, including wins in both the $4 million Turf and the $6 million Classic.
In 2019, Ortiz repeated the Eclipse Award by leading in both wins and second places, as well as establishing a single-year earnings record for North American horse racing of $34,109,019. He won his third straight Eclipse Award in 2020 after again finishing first on both the earnings and wins list.
Career, Business, and Investments
Irad Ortiz Jr.'s career has been marked by numerous achievements, including multiple Eclipse Awards for Outstanding Jockey. Known for his tactical riding style, Ortiz has collaborated with some of the best trainers and horses in the industry. In addition to racing, Ortiz has demonstrated a keen business acumen by investing in real estate and equestrian-related businesses that keep him connected to the sport he loves.
In 2016, Ortiz was unanimously voted the Jockeys' Guild Jockey of the Week for June 6 – 12. Ortiz began the weekend by winning the Jersey Girl Stakes, New York Stakes and Easy Goer Stakes. He then gained his fourth stakes victory of the week by winning his first American Classic in the 2016 Belmont Stakes on Creator.
"I thought Irad did a masterful job with all of his decisions," said Creator's trainer, Steve Asmussen. "He saved enough ground going into the first turn and stayed inside, and that gave us a chance to win." He again finished second in the North American jockey standings.
Social Network
Irad Ortiz Jr. has a significant presence on social media platforms, where he engages with fans and shares insights into his racing career. His Instagram account boasts thousands of followers, where he posts updates about his races, personal life, and the thoroughbred horses he rides. By actively participating in social media, Ortiz strengthens his brand and connects with a broader audience.
Education
Irad Ortiz Jr.'s education primarily revolves around his practical experience in horse racing. While he may not have formal education beyond high school, his hands-on training and involvement in the sport from a young age have been instrumental in shaping his career. Ortiz's knowledge of racing tactics and horse care is extensive, cultivated through years of rigorous training and dedication.
In summary, Irad Ortiz Jr. remains a prominent figure in the world of horse racing as of 2025, with a successful career, a cautious approach to personal relationships, and a growing net worth. His story continues to inspire aspiring jockeys and horse racing enthusiasts around the globe.
His grandfather, also named Irad Ortiz, was a jockey, as was uncle Iván Ortiz. His younger brother, José Ortiz, is also a leading jockey in New York. "We support each other, but you know, when we go out there, we are jockeys," said José.
Growing up, one of his idols was Ángel Cordero Jr., the first Puerto Rican jockey to be inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. At age 16, Ortiz enrolled in Puerto Rico's Escuela Vocacional Hípica, a school for prospective jockeys.
