Ramiro Haro Garcia Named 2026 Sam Thompson Memorial Jockey Award Recipient

Ramiro Haro Garcia has been named the 2026 recipient of the Sam Thompson Memorial Jockey Award, an honor recognizing a rider’s character, sportsmanship and professionalism both on and off the racetrack.

Named in memory of the late jockey Sam Thompson, the annual award is voted on by past recipients. Garcia received the honor in his first year as a nominee.

“I am just so honored to not only have been nominated for this award, but to win it is absolutely amazing,” Garcia said. “To be added to a list that includes so many people who have helped me throughout my career, along with jockeys I have always looked up to, is something very special. I am just so very thankful and excited to be recognized by the past winners and to join them on the list of recipients.”

A native of Zacatecas, Mexico, Garcia moved to the United States when he was four years old. He did not come from a racing family and began riding horses at age 19. He credits trainer Jaime Martinez with helping him take his first steps toward a career in the racing industry in Colorado.

Garcia obtained his jockey’s license in 2014 and rode his first races at Remington Park in Oklahoma City. His first career victory came several months later at Arapahoe Park in Colorado, where he went on to earn leading rider honors that same year. He claimed the title again in 2016.

In 2024, Garcia added another riding title to his résumé, finishing as the leading rider at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Iowa.

His career highlights include riding Chew Bac Cah, winner of the 2026 Heritage Place Oaks (G2) and an earner of $316,186. He also guided Ask Her To Fly to a runner-up finish in this year’s $3 million All American Futurity (G1).

Along the way, Garcia has drawn guidance and support from several riders and horsemen, including the late Cesar Gomez, Tony Guymon, Stormy Smith and trainer John Hammes. Joining a list of award recipients that includes mentors and jockeys he has long admired makes the recognition especially meaningful.

Tentative plans call for Garcia to receive the 2026 Sam Thompson Memorial Jockey Award on Texas Classic Futurity night at Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, Texas.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Would you like more industry news delivered directly to your inbox? Click here to sign up.