Three Kings Day racing program at Camarero to include Best Jockeys Event

The Camarero Racetrack’s traditional Three Kings Day racing program on Tuesday will feature 10 official races, and will also include the Puerto Rican Best Jockeys Event, which will bring together local riders and several internationally recognized figures. (Facebook via Hipódromo Camarero)

By THE STAR STAFF

The Camarero Racetrack (Hipódromo Camarero) in Canóvanas will hold its traditional Three Kings Day (Día de Reyes) racing program on Tuesday, featuring 10 official races and cultural activities. This year’s schedule includes the Puerto Rican Best Jockeys Event, which will bring together local riders and several internationally recognized figures.

For the first time, the program will include a Jockey Challenge among participating riders. Admission and parking will be free, and early arrivals -- 200 children and 200 adults -- will receive gifts and a commemorative poster signed by the jockeys. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the riders during a public greeting session.

The jockey lineup includes Manuel Franco, Edwin González, Ramón Vázquez, Jorge Vargas, Edwin Maldonado, José Luis Ortiz, Jaime Torres, Juan Carlos Díaz, Jean C. Díaz, Jorge Vélez, Javier Santiago, Edgar Zayas, Jesús Manuel Ríos and Edwin Castro. They will compete throughout the day’s races.

Special guests will include Ángel “Junior” Cordero Jr., John Velázquez -- who will be honored as the inaugural Jockey Challenge is dedicated to him -- and Irad Ortiz Jr. The event will also highlight thoroughbred aftercare, with three percent of all on-track wagers donated to programs accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.

Additional activities will include children’s shows, live music, and a performance by Grupo Manía. A Santa Claus vs. Three Kings race will also be part of the festivities.