What is Calvin Borel's Net Worth?
Calvin Borel, an esteemed American jockey in thoroughbred horse racing, boasts a net worth of $20 million. Born on November 7, 1966, in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana, Borel has built an illustrious career over 25 years, known for his remarkable work ethic and skill in slipping up the rail to save ground. This signature move earned him the nickname "Calvin Bo-rail" among his peers and racing fans.
Professional Achievements
Calvin Borel began his professional riding career at Delta Downs, and since then, he has clinched numerous prestigious victories in the U.S. Trip Crown/Breeders' Cup divisions. Some of his notable wins include:
- Breeder's Cup (2006)
- Kentucky Derby (2007, 2009, 2010)
- Preakness Stakes (2009)
- Super Derby (1991)
- Arkansas Derby (1993)
- Count Fleet (1989, 1995)
- Falls City Handicap (1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2008)
- Apple Blossom Handicap (1997, 2001)
- Fleur de Lis Handicap (1997, 2009, 2010)
- Essex Handicap (1998, 2007)
- Clark Handicap (1999)
- Kentucky Cup Classic Handicap (1999)
- Bashford Manor Stakes (2000, 2008)
- Oaklawn Handicap (2000)
- Bourbon Stakes (2002)
- And many more...
Career Milestones
On June 4, 2010, Borel made history by becoming only the second jockey to win 1,000 career races at Churchill Downs, joining the Hall of Famer Pat Day.
Personal Life and Challenges
Not all of Borel's moments in the spotlight have been celebratory. On August 20, 2011, he was arrested in Evansville, Indiana, for allegedly driving while intoxicated. Nonetheless, Borel continued to achieve new heights in his career. On March 7, 2013, he celebrated his 5000th victory at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, riding Hezunusual in the 6th race. This win was particularly special for Borel as he dedicated it to his longtime agent of over 20 years, Jerry Hissam, who was ill at the time. Borel became the 26th North American jockey to reach the remarkable milestone of 5000 victories.
In Popular Culture
Borel extended his presence beyond the racetracks by playing himself in the 2014 feature film "50 to 1," which chronicled the 2009 Kentucky Derby win of the horse Mine that Bird. Moreover, Borel's older brother, Cecil, inspired by the family's passion for horse racing, briefly pursued a career as a jockey but later transitioned to training horses at Delta Downs in Vinton, Louisiana.
