Carlos Marquez

As racing nationwide grinds to a halt in many jurisdictions, the focus--rightfully so--has been on the lifelong racetrackers who have had their Thoroughbred livelihoods upended by the rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus. But what about the up-and-comers who are just now breaking into the sport? Their perspectives are unique and important, too. Take apprentice jockeys. When the game is going full-tilt, hardly a week goes by without news that a "bug" rider has achieved a maiden-breaking victory, complete with the ritualistic dousing of water, eggs, shaving cream, talcum powder,...

Charlie Marquez rode the first winner of his career with Sierra Leona (Point Given)'s 3/4-length victory at Laurel Park Thursday. It was the eighth career mount for the 16-year-old, who rode his first race Jan. 1 at Laurel. "It feels amazing. I'm only 16; it's a lot to digest," Marquez said. "But I'm glad I'm here and I'm thankful for all the opportunities been given to me. This means so much to me." From Columbia, Maryland, Marquez is the son of 52-year-old Carlos Marquez, Jr., a multiple graded-stakes winner of...