Paco Lopez, a jockey with an impressive career at Monmouth Park, is on the cusp of achieving a significant milestone. Despite his many accomplishments, including a record-tying 13th Monmouth Park riding title and an eighth straight, there's one major achievement that has eluded him: winning the Haskell Stakes. This prestigious race, the premier event at the Jersey Shore track, has been a constant challenge for Lopez in his 11 attempts. However, with his recent victory in the Preakness Stakes aboard Napoleon Solo, Lopez is now eyeing the Haskell as his next big goal.
Lopez's ride on Napoleon Solo, a 1 1/4-length victory at Laurel Park, was a testament to his skill and mastery. The colt, named after a character from the 1960s TV show 'The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,' has been a standout performer, winning the Champagne Stakes as a 2-year-old. This success has set the stage for a potential Haskell triumph, which would be a personal achievement for Lopez.
The Haskell Stakes, a $1 million race, would be a significant win for Lopez, not only because it would complete his Triple Crown success but also because it would be a personal milestone. Lopez, who is seeking his record-tying 13th Monmouth Park riding title, sees the Haskell as a missing piece in his illustrious career. The 40-year-old jockey, who finished second nationally in wins last year, is determined to make this race his own.
Lopez's determination and work ethic are evident in his approach to the sport. He quickly moved on from his Preakness victory, riding in the next race on the card and winning with Grant the Great for Kelly Breen, the leading trainer at Monmouth Park. His mindset, as he puts it, is 'Yesterday's win was yesterday. Today is today. I have to find a way to win with different horses now.'
The Haskell Stakes, with its rich history and prestige, presents a unique challenge for Lopez. His previous best finish in the race was a second-place finish in 2020, and he is confident that Napoleon Solo, who has only had five starts, will be ready for the challenge. Lopez's belief in the horse's potential is a testament to his own confidence and experience.
As Lopez prepares for the Haskell, the racing world is abuzz with anticipation. The jockey's journey to this point, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, has made him a fan favorite. The Haskell Stakes, with its potential to complete Lopez's Triple Crown success, promises to be a memorable race, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career.
