Rajiv Maragh reached one of racing’s most respected milestones on Friday at Gulfstream Park, achieving the 2000 wins landmark when he guided Lazio to a determined victory in Race 3. For the 40-year-old rider, the moment marked both a personal goal and a significant chapter in a career built on consistency, resilience, and long-standing commitment to the sport.
“This feels pretty surreal when you think about the whole journey since 2000,” Maragh said after the race, joined by family and friends in the winner’s circle. “I’ve come a long way from humble beginnings. To be able to achieve this milestone is pretty incredible. You don’t win 2000 by yourself. A lot of people help make it possible.”
Maragh stepped away from riding in January 2022 to devote his time to developing Road Jockey, a food delivery service in Jamaica. But the competitive spark remained. He returned to Gulfstream on October 29, 2024, with one objective in mind: reach 2000 wins. Lazio’s narrow triumph delivered that target.
The experienced rider settled his mount just behind the pace before making his move at the top of the stretch. A strong late surge from New York New York made the final stages tense, but Maragh kept Lazio focused to hold on by a neck in the 5 1/2-furlong Tapeta sprint for older horses.
“This was a short-term goal I really wanted to accomplish,” he said. “It shows what’s possible when you keep working at the highest level, especially during Gulfstream’s Championship Meet.”
Across more than two decades in the saddle, Maragh has compiled an outstanding record. His résumé includes 25 Grade 1 victories, most notably his partnership with Main Sequence during the gelding’s remarkable 2014 season, which featured wins in the United Nations, Sword Dancer, and Joe Hirsch Turf Classic. He later guided Main Sequence to victory in the 2015 Mac Diarmida at Gulfstream.
Maragh’s first breakthrough came early in his career when he won the Hurricane Bertie (G3) in 2005 aboard Lilah, a filly significant enough that he and his wife later named their daughter after her. Nearly a decade later, he returned to the same race aboard Groupie Doll, who signed off her celebrated career with a commanding seven-length victory. His association with Groupie Doll also included back-to-back Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint wins in 2012 and 2013, earning the mare consecutive Eclipse Awards.
His journey began on February 1, 2004, with a decisive first career victory at Tampa Bay Downs aboard Pricedale Kid. From that moment to win number 2000, Maragh’s path has been defined by hard work, adaptability, and the ability to deliver when the moment demands it.
Celebrating the Rajiv Maragh 2000 Wins Milestone
The achievement at Gulfstream underscores Maragh’s longevity in the sport and reaffirms his place among American racing’s most accomplished active riders. With form, fitness, and determination still intact, his return to racing continues to add new chapters to a distinguished career.
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