Jockey John Hamilton On the Mend

Quarter Horse jockey John Hamilton and his son, Quincy, who rides Thoroughbreds

A familiar face in the Louisiana Downs jockey colony has been missing in action. John Hamilton is recovering from shoulder surgery at the end of December and will not ride at all in the 2016 Louisiana Downs Quarter Horse racing season.

That's the bad news, but Hamilton is ahead of schedule in his in his physical therapy and "feeling great"! Chaplain Jimmy Sistrunk and several jockey wives have organized a bake sale for Saturday, February 20, beginning at 8 am outside of the Louisiana Downs racing office. With 12 trials for the Mardi Gras Futurity, you can be sure that horsemen and fans alike with support one of the all-time greats, who they affectionately call "Hambone"!!!

Hamilton had a very successful 2015, leading the nation in wins (152) and captured the Delta Downs riding title. He was a finalist for 2015 AQHA Champion Jockey and was just named Champion Jockey by the Louisiana Quarter Horse Breeders Association (LQHBA) and will be honored in their annual banquet on April 9.

Hamilton, 51, is always serious about giving credit to others for his good fortune.

"I might get the glory for winning a race, but the truth is that I only account for 18 seconds" said Hamilton. "My success is owed to God, my owners, trainers, grooms, gate crew and my wife who has put up with so much! Maybe, I won't ride for another ten years, but I have no intention of stopping anytime soon."

While Hamilton has always been true to Quarter Horse racing, his son, Quincy, is a noted Thoroughbred jockey with successful runs at Arlington, Remington and Oaklawn Park.

He's racing to recovery and will be back for the Delta Downs Quarter Horse meet!!!