Legendary Jockey Ron Turcotte Passes Away at 84
Ron Turcotte, the renowned jockey who famously rode the legendary racehorse Secretariat in 1973, has died at the age of 84. His family shared the news through Leonard Rusky, a long-time business partner and friend, stating that Turcotte passed away from natural causes at his residence in Drummond, New Brunswick, Canada, on Friday.
“Ron was a remarkable jockey and inspired many, both in and out of the racing community,” Rusky reflected. “Though he reached incredible heights in his career, it was his faith, bravery, and kindness that truly defined his greatness.”
Turcotte was inducted into the National Racing Hall of Fame Museum in 1979. The Turcotte family expressed, “While the world may know Ron as the rider of Secretariat, he was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather to us. His legacy as a jockey is only part of who he was.”
Over his career, Turcotte won more than 3,000 races. However, his time as a jockey came to an abrupt end in 1978 after he fell from a horse during a race, sustaining injuries. His accolades included victories in the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes on two occasions each. Notably, during 1973, he achieved the Triple Crown with Secretariat, ending a 25-year drought in that category.
Born on July 22, 1941, in Drummond as one of twelve siblings, Turcotte began his career in horse racing as a hot walker after leaving his job as a lumberjack in Toronto. He quickly made a name for himself at the Woodbine racetrack before rising to prominence in the racing world.
Jim Lawson, Chairman of Woodbine, remarked that Turcotte was a “true Canadian icon” with an impact on the sport that is immeasurable. He added, “Ron conducted himself with humility, strength, and dignity. His legacy will endure at Woodbine and across the globe.”
Turcotte recalled his connection with Secretariat fondly, describing riding him as “love at first ride.” “He was a horse unlike any other,” Turcotte expressed, reminiscing nearly 50 years after that unforgettable ride.
