What's Happening?
Ron Turcotte, the Hall of Fame jockey renowned for riding Secretariat to the Triple Crown in 1973, has died at the age of 84. Turcotte's family announced that he passed away from natural causes at his home in Drummond, New Brunswick. Turcotte's career was marked by significant achievements, including winning the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes twice each. His most notable victory was with Secretariat, ending a 25-year Triple Crown drought. Secretariat's record-breaking performance in the Belmont Stakes, where he won by 31 lengths, remains unmatched. Turcotte's career ended in 1978 after a fall left him paraplegic, but he continued to advocate for disabled jockeys.
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Why It's Important?
Turcotte's legacy in horse racing is profound, not only for his achievements on the track but also for his contributions to the sport's community. His victories with Secretariat are celebrated as some of the most iconic moments in horse racing history, inspiring future generations of jockeys and racing enthusiasts. Turcotte's advocacy for disabled jockeys highlights his commitment to the welfare of his peers, making him a respected figure beyond his racing accomplishments. His death marks the end of an era for horse racing, as he was one of the last living connections to Secretariat's legendary career.
