by Francesca Le Donne
Which horse is most special to you? La Verdad
Which jockey do you admire the most? John Velazquez
Do you prefer to ride on turf or dirt and why? Turf, you need to ride a little bit smarter and save a little ground, you need to get your horse relaxed in the race.
Which NYRA track is your favorite to ride on? Belmont Park
What do you love most about the horses? The way they socialize with me...at least with me, I can understand what they want me to know or what to do, by the ears or the way they move. I like that.
What's your favorite food? Rice and beans
What music do you listen to? Reggaetone
What do you do to prepare for a race? I handicap the program and watch replays.
Who is your favorite athlete outside of racing? Jose Reyes
Zenyatta or Rachel Alexandra? Rachel Alexandra
If you could have any super hero power what would it be? To fly.
What's your favorite thing to do on a dark day? Spending time with the family.
When was the last time you were in Puerto Rico, any plans to go back? Last Christmas (2016), I went for New Year's eve too. I wish I could go back sooner...but yes i'll be going back.
What's your favorite sport to watch? Baseball
What's your favorite time of day at the track? Afternoon
What's your favorite movie? Drumline
Favorite TV show? El señor de los Cielos
Describe your brother, (Irad Ortiz Jr.) in one word. Great
Who is your favorite horse of all time? Rachel Alexandra
Which win are you most proud of? The Belmont Stakes