History of Brian Hernandez Jr. in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 3, 2025

Brian Joseph Hernandez Jr. is a successful American Thoroughbred horse racing jockey. Turning professional in 2003, he secured his first victory in November of that year. By May 2024, Hernandez had amassed over 2,500 wins in his career, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport.

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Full Timeline

November 3, 1985: Birth of Brian Joseph Hernandez Jr.

On November 3, 1985, Brian Joseph Hernandez Jr. was born in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Others born on this day/year

November 29, 2003: First Professional Win

On November 29, 2003, Brian Hernandez Jr. achieved his first professional win at Delta Downs in Louisiana.

2004: Eclipse Award for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey

In 2004, Brian Hernandez Jr. was voted the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Apprentice Jockey.

2009: Rode Rachel Alexandra

In 2009, Brian Hernandez Jr. rode Rachel Alexandra to two wins in her first five starts.

2009: Calvin Borel Wins Kentucky Derby and Oaks

In 2009, Calvin Borel was the jockey that won the Kentucky Derby and Oaks, the last time it had happened before Brian Hernandez Jr. in 2024

August 18, 2012: 1,000th Career Race Win

On August 18, 2012, Brian Hernandez Jr. won the 1,000th race of his career at Ellis Park Race Course.

November 3, 2012: Breeders' Cup Classic win and Birthday

On November 3, 2012, Brian Hernandez Jr.'s 27th birthday, he won the Breeders' Cup Classic aboard Fort Larned at Santa Anita Park.

2012: Breeders' Cup Classic win

In 2012, Brian Hernandez Jr. won the Breeders' Cup Classic.

May 2024: Over 2,500 Career Victories

As of May 2024, Brian Hernandez Jr. has achieved over 2,500 career victories.

2024: Kentucky Oaks and Derby Victories

In 2024, Brian Hernandez Jr. became the ninth jockey to win both the Kentucky Oaks aboard Thorpedo Anna and the Kentucky Derby on Mystik Dan in the same year. Both horses were trained by Ken McPeek.