World horse riding experienced a historic moment on May 3, 2025, when for the first time a Venezuelan rider crossed the finish line in first place and won the prestigious Kentucky Derby. Junior Alvarado, riding the talented Sovereignty foal, wrote his name in gold letters on Churchill Downs, proving that perseverance, talent and passion can lead to the top of the equestrian world.
The Kentucky Derby is a race that has brought together hundreds of historic races as it is the first race of the American triple crown. This is run at the Churchill Downs racecourse, whose tracks have even seen a virtual horse race between the best horses in history.
We were already closely following the career of Venezuelan Junior Alvarado in his participation in the Preakness Stakes where he finished in 5th place, already proving his worth.
In this article you will learn all the details of this feat, as well as the trajectory of the Venezuelan rider Junior Alvarado and the extraordinary horse Sovereignty, who together achieved a victory that is already part of the history of the sport.
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Venezuelan wins Kentucky Derby 151: an unforgettable race
The Kentucky Derby is the most famous horse race in the United States and one of the most prestigious in the world. It is held every first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. The 151st edition of this competition was especially exciting, as it featured a highly competitive group of three-year-old foals.
From the start, Sovereignty, under the mount of Junior Alvarado, showed its determination. Although he was not the betting favourite, he stayed close to the leading pack for the opening stages of the race. Going into the final corner, Alvarado found space on the inside of the track and guided Sovereignty with absolute confidence.
In the last 200 meters, the pair unleashed an impressive acceleration that left their rivals behind. They crossed the finish line with a clear advantage, making those present and thousands of fans around the world explode with emotion. For the first time in history, a Venezuelan wins the Kentucky Derby, and he did it with mastery.
This victory not only marked a milestone for Junior Alvarado, but also for the prestigious Godolphin stable, owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who took his first win in this prestigious race.
Junior Alvarado’s Career: From La Rinconada to Churchill Downs
Junior Rafael Alvarado was born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, in 1986. His passion for horses was inherited from his father, also a rider. He began his career at the La Rinconada racetrack in Caracas in 2005, where he quickly demonstrated his skills in the saddle. His talent led him to win multiple races in Venezuela, becoming a promising figure of national horse racing.
In 2007, Alvarado immigrated to the United States in search of greater opportunities. There he faced a competitive and demanding environment, but his constant effort allowed him to stand out. Over the years, he has won more than 2,100 races in North America, including multiple degree tests.
His riding style, characterized by tactical intelligence and connection with the horse, has been recognized by trainers and owners. He has worked with renowned coaches such as Bill Mott, who was precisely the coach of Sovereignty in the 2025 Derby.
Before his historic victory at Churchill Downs, Alvarado had already made headlines in February 2024 by becoming the first Venezuelan to win the Saudi Cup, the race with the highest prize in the world, riding Señor Buscador. That triumph was a harbinger of the greatness he would achieve months later in the Derby.
Venezuelan pride and symbol of self-improvement wins the Kentucky Derby
Junior Alvarado’s victory in the Kentucky Derby 151 is not only an individual achievement. It also represents the ability of Latin American talent to stand out on international stages. For Venezuela, a country with a rich equestrian tradition, this triumph has enormous emotional and symbolic value.
Since his arrival in the United States, Alvarado has worked tirelessly to position himself as one of the best riders on the continent. His discipline, humility and love for sport are an inspiration for new generations.
With Sovereignty he has formed a duo that will remain in history. Both proved that perseverance and preparation pay off, even in the most demanding competitions in the world.
Historic milestone, a Venezuelan wins the Kentucky Derby
Venezuelan wins the Kentucky Derby. This phrase, which years ago seemed like a distant dream, today is a reality that makes all of Latin America proud. Junior Alvarado and Sovereignty starred in an epic day at Churchill Downs, proving that dreams do come true when you work with passion and determination.
The story of this Venezuelan rider and his brave horse will continue to inspire those who see horse riding not only as a sport, but as a way of life. Undoubtedly, this victory marks a before and after in the history of Venezuelan and world turf.
