Churchill Downs News Update: Lanerie Passes Borel for Second All-Time Leading Rider at Churchill Downs

Jun 27, 2025

Jockey Corey Lanerie added another milestone to his storied career Friday at Churchill Downs when he surpassed fellow Louisiana native Calvin Borel for second on the track’s all-time leading rider list.

Lanerie notched career victory No. 1,233 beneath the historic Twin Spires when he guided Taylor’s Version to victory in Race 11 and edged past Borel’s 1,232 wins. Only Hall of Famer Pat Day ranks ahead of the duo with a record 2,482 wins at Churchill Downs.

Lanerie, 50, grew up in Lafayette, La., and began riding at Churchill Downs in 2000. His first victory at the Louisville track came aboard Embraceable on Nov. 21, 2000, for trainer Mike Stidham. Since then, Lanerie has gone on to claim 19 leading rider titles at Churchill.

Among Lanerie’s most notable victories at Churchill Downs are Grade I scores with Bell’s the One in the 2020 Derby City Distaff and Molly Morgan in the 2015 La Troienne. He also won the Grade II Kentucky Jockey Club in 2021 with Smile Happy and the 2016 Pocahontas with Daddys Lil Darling. Other notable wins include Brushed by a Star (2012 Chilukki), Majestic Harbor (2016 Alysheba) and Serengeti Empress (2018 Pocahontas).

“It’s almost like I didn’t want to pass him because he’s meant so much to my career,” Lanerie said. “He taught me and Brian (Hernandez Jr.) a lot sitting in that corner of the jocks room. He taught us how to be patient and save ground. I’m just so thankful for everyone who’s helped me get here. I’m going to keep going but I don’t think anyone will ever catch Pat (Day).

Borel, a three-time Kentucky Derby-winning rider, offered a message of support to Lanerie after the accomplishment.

“I just want to tell you congratulations on your career and success in life,” Borel said. “I hope you keep on going after reaching my goal. I don’t think any of us will get to the next goal reaching Pat.”

Lanerie is currently represented by Jake Romans. Many of his victories at Churchill Downs came for Jake’s father, Dale, including Taylor’s Version.

“He’s always been a big supporter of mine,” Lanerie said. “He’s very easy to ride for and we make a good team.”

Prior to being represented by Jake Romans, Lanerie spent much of his career at Churchill Downs represented by Terry “Jaws” Miller.