Legendary Jockey Ron turcotte, Secretariat‘s Pilot, Dies at 86
Saint-Édouard-de-Lotbinière, Quebec – Ron turcotte, the Hall of Fame jockey indelibly linked to Secretariat’s historic Triple Crown victory in 1973, passed away on July 22, 2024, at the age of 86. Turcotte died peacefully at his home in Quebec, surrounded by family, following a prolonged battle with complications from a stroke suffered in 2019. His death marks the end of an era for horse racing, extinguishing a vital connection to one of the sport’s most celebrated achievements.
Turcotte’s legacy extends beyond a single race, though Secretariat’s record-shattering performances at the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and belmont Stakes cemented his place in sporting history. Born in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, on July 22, 1938, Turcotte was a Brayon-a French-speaking community distinct from both Acadian and Quebecois cultures-who rose to prominence in a sport often dominated by more privileged backgrounds. His unwavering determination and exceptional skill propelled him to the pinnacle of thoroughbred racing, and his story continues to inspire generations of jockeys and racing enthusiasts.
Turcotte’s ancestry traces back through generations in the L’Isle-Verte region of Quebec.Records indicate his lineage includes Pierre Turcotte, who married Elisabeth Ouellet on February 15, 1847; Joseph Turcotte, who married Cécile Rousseau on January 22, 1803; Médard Turcot, who married marie-Marguerite Canac-Marquis on January 28, 1771; Louis Turcotte, who married Angélique Plant on January 20, 1721; and abel Turcotte, who married Marie Giraud on November 27, 1662.
Throughout his career, Turcotte amassed over 3,000 wins, including victories in the 1959 Canadian Derby and the 1964 Woodbine Handicap. However, it was his partnership with Secretariat that defined his career. He first rode the chestnut colt in a maiden race at Aqueduct Racetrack in 1972, and their connection was immediate.
“He had a tremendous stride,” Turcotte once said of Secretariat. “He just ate up the ground. It was like riding a jet.”
Secretariat’s 31-length victory in the 1973 Belmont Stakes, setting a world record that still stands today, remains a defining moment in sports history. Turcotte’s masterful ride, guiding Secretariat to maintain a blistering pace, was crucial to the victory.A fall in 1978 at Woodbine Racetrack resulted in paralysis from the waist down, ending his riding career. He remained a beloved figure in the racing world,frequently sharing stories of his time with Secretariat and mentoring young jockeys.
