Churchill Downs: Esquivel picks up mounts for McPeek

Manny Esquivel has been making the most of his time at Churchill Downs this fall with six wins from 34 mounts as a key member of trainer Kenny McPeek’s team while regular rider Brian Hernandez Jr. remains sidelined.

“It means a lot,” Esquivel said. “I’ve been working really hard, and Kenny has given me great opportunities. I rode for him at Keeneland, Colonial and Oaklawn, and being part of his barn has been a big help.”

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Esquivel, represented by Jose Santos Jr., has recorded 86 wins at seven tracks so far in 2025. Santos has become one of the top agents in North America and currently represents a roster of seven jockeys, Joe Bravo at Gulfstream Park, Rene Diaz at Remington Park, Christopher Elliott at Aqueduct, Rey Gutierrez at Finger Lakes and Gulfstream Park, Julien Leparoux at Churchill Downs and Freddy Manrrique at Remington Park.

“Jose works hard. I don’t see him often, but he’s always working and getting me on good horses,” Esquivel said. “I’ve been riding all over and staying busy. I have to thank my wife because she takes care of everything at home with the kids so I can travel and focus. I couldn’t do it without her support.”

Esquivel was named on 11 mounts this week at Churchill Downs as he looks to continue his solid run at the fall meet.

“Who doesn’t want to ride here full time?” Esquivel said. “It’s every jockey’s goal. It’s a tough room with Irad (Ortiz Jr.), Jose (Ortiz), Tyler (Gaffalione) and Luis Saez. You need some luck and good support, and I feel like I have that. I’m just going to keep working and take advantage of every chance.”