When the Peter Miller trained Nucky rolled down the Del Mar stretch under a flawless and well timed ride by Norberto Arroyo Jr. to take the Grade 1 Runhappy Del Mar Futurity, it was a special moment for the rider.
In a career that has had both ups and downs, it was the first, and long overdue Grade 1 win for the immensely talented jockey. Norberto has been a leading rider on top circuits amongst the best jockey colonies in the country. He’s ridden at the Dubai World Cup meet. He has hit the board in a Triple Crown Classic, finishing third on Nolan’s Cat in the 2005 Belmont Stakes. He has won stakes like the Lanes End Spiral, Aqueduct Handicap, Del Mar Derby, Bed of Roses, Queens County Handicap, Nassau County Handicap, and Excelsior Breeders’ Cup Handicap along with several others.
That Grade 1 always seemed to elude him however because of bad decisions, timing, and just not getting the right mount. His talent and ability were never the question as he has shown time and time again. When he is focused and has his head in the game Norberto Arroyo can ride with anyone.
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