About
Biography
Johnny Longden (February 14, 1907 – September 14, 2003) was a prominent American jockey renowned for his extraordinary accomplishments in thoroughbred horse racing. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Longden began his riding career at the age of 17 and quickly established himself on the racetracks of North America. Over his lengthy career, he became the first jockey to win over 6,000 races, a milestone that solidified his position as a legendary figure in the sport.
Longden's career spanned from the 1920s to the 1960s, during which he achieved notable victories in prestigious races such as the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. He is particularly celebrated for his partnership with the racehorse Count Fleet, with whom he won the 1943 Triple Crown. Longden's skills and intuition as a rider were widely recognized, earning him accolades and respect within the racing community.
After retiring from riding, Longden transitioned into training and continued to make significant contributions to the sport. His legacy is evident not only in his record-breaking achievements but also in his influence on future generations of jockeys. Longden was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1958, a testament to his enduring impact on thoroughbred racing history.