Mike Gathagan
Vice President-Communications
Maryland Jockey Club

LAUREL, Md. – Horacio Karamanos returned to the Maryland jockey colony last week after spending 16 months riding at San Isidro Racecourse in his native Argentina. Wednesday afternoon, the veteran jockey revisited the winners’ circle after guiding Crafty Secret to a popular score in the third race.

The 36-year-old spent seven years (2002-2008) at the major Maryland tracks, winning nearly 750 races with three riding titles at Laurel Park and Pimlico. He established a Laurel record with a career-best seven victories on Oct. 26, 2002. 

“I am so happy to be back,” Karamanos said. “I won 285 races in Argentina and got to spend a year and a half with my family but Maryland is my home. I want to stay here and finish my career.”

Crafty Secret dropped back early before circling up five wide and taking the lead in mid-stretch. She galloped home an easy winner, completing the one mile distance in 1:41.55 and paying $4.20.  Ferris Allen trains the Crafty Prospector filly.

“I am happy my first win back was for Ferris Allen,” added Karamanos. “We have won many races together.”