Racing's Future: Lane Luzzi

“Racing’s Future” is a Q&A series in which I aspire to help everyone in the industry. In addition to shining a spotlight on youth who plan to have a career in horse racing, I hope that the opinions expressed in their responses will offer industry leaders insight into what a younger audience believes the sport should improve upon.

Meet Lane Luzzi

17-year-old New York native Lane Luzzi, son of Eclipse Award-winning jockey Mike Luzzi, has been around horse racing for his entire life. An aspiring jockey, Lane is currently working as an exercise rider for trainer Michael Maker.

What was it like growing up around the racetrack?

Growing up around the racetrack is a fun lifestyle. Watching my dad ride at Belmont, Aqueduct, and Saratoga on race days are moments I will forever cherish. Ever since I can remember, I've wanted to be around horses. Finally, when I turned 15, I rode my first racehorse and I never looked back.

What do you love about horse racing?

I love the atmosphere. There's no feeling like being at the track at 5:30 in the morning working with the horses. But overall it has been a huge part of my life and I couldn't imagine my life without it. This game is truly a lifestyle!

What career are you pursuing in the horse racing industry?

I've dreamed of following in my dad's footsteps as a jockey my entire life. Seeing my dad win races on the biggest stage is just an incredible feeling and to this day the feeling stays the same.

Why have you chosen to pursue that career?

It's simply what I love to do. I can't put into words how amazing it is to be coming around the turn asking your horse for all they have and being able to feel their response underneath you.

How are you currently pursuing that career?

I was given a great opportunity to work as an exercise rider for Michael Maker. Every morning I gallop, breeze, or jog several horses. Part of becoming a better rider is just getting on more horses. Eventually you just have to cowboy up and get .on the tougher ones. It is a long process but I've came a long way and I am receiving the right guidance from some of the best horsemen in the business. I want to be ready before I race ride. A huge mistake jockeys make is rushing to race. It is tempting and there is no doubt I want to ride races now, but the best thing for me is to wait and become the best I can be before I take a step forward

Who are some of the people you admire in the industry and why?

Definitely my dad. Being raised by him, I learned so much about the industry and how to handle myself on and off the race track. We ride the Equicizer in my basement for hours on end and he has been instrumental with my riding ability. Another person who really has been a role model to me is Joe Sharp. Joe took me under his wing this summer and within weeks I felt more comfortable in the saddle. I may get in trouble if I don't thank a few of my friends who have helped me along the way, including Jesse Cruz, Mattie Martin, Nolan Ramsey, Dustin Dugas, Nelson Donis , Anthony Caccavale and Abigail Adsit, who put me on my first horse! There's plenty of others. Never forget where you came from and who guided you along the way.

What racetracks have you been to?

Belmont, Saratoga, Aqueduct, Monmouth, Meadowlands, Parx, Delaware, Laurel, Pimlico, Gulfstream, Calder, Churchill Downs and Santa Anita.

What is your favorite racetrack? Why?

Saratoga. The place has a whole different vibe that I look forward to every summer.

Of the racetracks you have not been to, which one do you want to visit most?

Keeneland. Had the chance to go a few years ago when my dad rode House of Grace in the Jessamine Stakes but never went.

What are your favorite moments in your “horse racing life” thus far?

Going to Churchill Downs for the Breeders Cup in 2006 and going to the 2013 Breeders Cup, where my dad rode one of my favorites, The Lumber Guy!

Who are your favorite racehorses of your lifetime? Before your lifetime?

Zenyatta and Secretariat

What do you think is preventing horse racing from being a more popular sport?

It's easy for a kid to go outside pick up a basketball and start dribbling. Not every kid can go into his or her backyard and saddle up a horse and go for a ride. That's why I think horse racing is less popular than many sports.

What do you think is the most common misconception about horse racing?

Many people who don't know much about horse racing think that is abusive. It saddens me because I've spent countless hours at the barn with horses and helping out with anything I can. I think I can speak for everyone at the track when I say we love horses and center our lives for their well-being.

How would you convince someone who is not an avid follower of horse racing to begin following the sport?

To just spend a day at the races and learn. There is so much to do and so many things to see on race day.

What is one thing you aspire to personally accomplish someday in the horse racing industry?

I want to have a successful career as a jockey. I want people to see that I am passionate about the game as a whole and that I am hard-working. I don't want to just be considered a good rider; I want to be a good horseman. That is one of the biggest compliments someone can be given out on the racetrack.