Big Names in Van Dyke’s Corner

Some jockeys win first time out and some require multiple trips to the post. For apprentice jockey Drayden Van Dyke, he won his first race in his second try at Hollywood Park–an accomplishment that can never be duplicated by future jockeys with that track’s subsequent closure. An interesting series of events conspired to point Van Dyke along the road to being a jockey, from familial ties to the sport, to backing by some of the biggest names in the business and he hasn’t stopped at win number one. 
   “Well, I started going to the racetrack with my dad,” said the 19-year-old. “He was a jockey when he was younger too, but around 15, I really got into it, with my size–I wasn’t growing–so that’s why I decided [to be a jockey].” 
   Born in Louisville, Kentucky and raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Van Dyke originally worked as an exercise rider for trainer Tom Proctor in the summers. Eventually, Van Dyke went to work for Proctor at Glen Hill Farm in Ocala, Florida, where he sharpened his skills before starting to ride professionally. 
   “I started to really learn how to ride at Glen Hill Farm, a year and a half, close to two years [ago],” said Van Dyke. “I’ve been a jockey for four months.” 
   Early in his career as a professional jockey, Van Dyke moved his tack from Kentucky to California. 
   “Actually it was Tom Proctor’s idea,” revealed Van Dyke. “He sent me to his farm in Ocala, and I was in Kentucky, for about a month or two. He decided that it would be a good experience and a good opportunity. That’s how I got out here [to California]. The weather’s perfect everyday. That’s the best news. It’s beautiful everyday and has nice people.” 
   Van Dyke spoke positively of his experiences so far in the Sunshine State. He has also been fortunate enough to be granted the advice of some of the top reinsmen in the game. 
   “I’ve gotten to be around some really good riders like Mike Smith and Gary Stevens,” said Van Dyke. “They all help me out. Every jockey up there, they help me out. It was good to be around them. They teach you little tricks, Mike and Gary showed me the little things on the Equicizer, but other than that you basically just learn from experience.” 
    Van Dyke acknowledged the effort required to succeed in his chosen profession. 
    “It’s a big challenge, it’s a tough business I’ve come to learn in the past month or two,” he emphasized. “You’ve got to work hard, work every day and try to be out there first in the morning, going to each barn. [It’s] definitely tough, but it’s fun.” 
    Van Dyke finished sixth aboard Two Term Leader (Political Force) in his first career appearance for Proctor Nov. 17 at Hollywood. Just a few days later, he captured his first win in his next start, getting up in dramatic fashion astride fellow Proctor trainee Money Clip (Afleet Alex) Nov. 21 at the same venue. Video After his first victory, the apprentice was jubilant. 
   “Well, it was awesome,” Van Dyke beamed. “I really didn’t expect it, because the horse hadn’t really run for a long time. The horse was coming off a layoff and Tom said that he’d probably need a race. I just drifted to the front and the lead. I never really asked him. I was kind of in shock. It was great to win for the farm where I learned how to ride. I think my favorite horse might have to be my first winner so far, Money Clip. It’s definitely a thrill ride every time you win a race. It’s a great feeling.” 
   Through Thursday, Van Dyke’s record stands at 
85-11-11-9 with$366,671 in total earnings. Already the young jockey is quick to observe how his riding tactics stack up against his peers. 
   “I’ve noticed I’ve been coming from out of it a lot,” Van Dyke continued. “That’s how I won my first race. I think that’s how I’ve won most of my races and that’s the main thing I’ve picked up on.” 
    Van Dyke is looking ahead and not resting on his laurels. He splits his time between Santa Anita and Turf Paradise on Arcadia’s dark days. His goals speak to the driving need to be successful to survive in this environment. 
    “Well it’d be nice to win the Eclipse award for the leading bug rider this year,” Van Dyke concluded. “Of course [to win] the Kentucky Derby [would also be great]. I’m glad to be riding, but just to win, to be winning, and hopefully win some big races in the future.” 
    With help from the likes of Proctor, Stevens and Smith, it looks like Van Dyke will have little trouble realizing his goals.
–Heather Likins