Benjamin Hernandez Rides First Winner at Aqueduct

Jockey Benjamin Hernandez earned his first win in the continental United States Nov. 14, when he piloted Scott Zimmerman's Alright Alright to victory for trainer John Toscano in the second race at Aqueduct Racetrack.

"It's so exciting—the best moment of my life," said Hernandez, a native of Puerto Rico. "I've been waiting a long time for this. It's been a long journey, so it's very exciting."

Hernandez, 27, graduated from the jockey school at Hipódromo Camarero and earned his first win in Puerto Rico in 2012. Following an injury that delayed his career, Hernandez moved to New York and returned to the sport as an exercise rider on the New York Racing Association circuit. He made his return to race riding in the final weeks of the fall meet at Belmont Park and finished second aboard Kerry Boy Oct. 19.

"My goal is to keep riding and working hard every day," Hernandez said. "In the mornings I breeze horses and try to improve my skills and gain the confidence of the trainers and more opportunities. I'm looking forward to a great winter."