Eddie Arcaro stands out in the annals of horse racing history as the only jockey to have won the U.S. Triple Crown twice. This remarkable achievement underscores his exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Arcaro's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated jockey is a testament to his talent and perseverance.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
George Edward Arcaro, known as Eddie, was born on February 19, 1916, in Cincinnati, Ohio. His
parents, Pasquale and Josephine, were Italian immigrants, and his father worked various jobs, including as a taxi driver and an operator of an illegal liquor enterprise during Prohibition. Arcaro's early life was marked by challenges, including being born prematurely and weighing just three pounds at birth. This led to him being smaller than his peers, which initially hindered his athletic pursuits.
Despite these early setbacks, Arcaro found his calling in horse racing. He won his first race at the age of 16 at the Agua Caliente racetrack in Tijuana, Mexico. This victory marked the beginning of a career that would see him become one of the most successful jockeys in American Thoroughbred horse racing history.
Achieving the Triple Crown
Arcaro's first major triumph came in 1938 when he won the Kentucky Derby aboard Lawrin. This victory was the first of five Kentucky Derby wins, a record he shares with Bill Hartack. However, it was his victories in the U.S. Triple Crown that truly set him apart. In 1941, Arcaro rode Whirlaway to victory in the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, securing his first Triple Crown.
Seven years later, in 1948, Arcaro achieved the unprecedented feat of winning the Triple Crown for a second time, this time aboard Citation. This accomplishment remains unmatched in the history of American horse racing, cementing Arcaro's legacy as one of the greatest jockeys of all time.
Legacy and Impact
Beyond his Triple Crown victories, Arcaro's career was filled with numerous other achievements. He won a total of 17 Triple Crown races, more than any other jockey. His success extended to other prestigious races, including the Jockey Club Gold Cup, which he won ten times, and the Wood Memorial Stakes, which he won nine times.
Arcaro's influence extended beyond the racetrack. He was instrumental in the creation of the Jockeys' Guild, advocating for the rights and welfare of jockeys. After retiring in 1962 due to severe bursitis, Arcaro continued to contribute to the sport as a television commentator and public relations officer.
Eddie Arcaro passed away in 1997, but his legacy endures. Known as "the Master" for his riding skills and strategic acumen, Arcaro remains a revered figure in the world of horse racing, celebrated for his unparalleled achievements and contributions to the sport.
