Cedeno returns to Delaware, gunning for fourth riding title

Carol Cedeno returns to Delaware Park this year.

From a Delaware Park release

When the 80th season of live racing begins on June 3rd, Carol Cedeno, the three-time defending leading jockey, will continue to write her chapter in the unique tradition of female riders at Delaware Park.

Through the decades, jockeys such as Julie Krone, Rosemary Homeister Jr. and Rosie Napravnik, have each contributed to the tradition to female riders racing at the Stanton-oval. Cedeno will be attempting to become only the third rider to have won four or more; the others include Michael McCarthy (1996-2000 & 2001) and Ramon Dominguez (2003-2006 & 2008).

“Every year it is very tough to be a leading rider because there are a lot of really good riders in this area, but I am excited about having the chance to do it again. I am looking forward to the challenge,” said Cedeno, who is a mother of two.

“This is my home track. I have a home in Delaware and this is where I am raising my family, so I want to do well here.”

The 26-year-old native of Puerto Rico had 50 winners from 341 mounts in 2014, 65 winners from 334 mounts in 2015 and 79 winners from 420 mounts in 2016. She does not feel the pressure of defending her title.

“I try to take it one race at a time and when the gates open, all I think about is that race,” Cedeno said. “I just try to be my best and give my best every day. That is the most important thing, and if you do that, good things typically follow.”