11 January 2024 , 15:22
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A jockey dedicated a winner to his teenage friend who tragically died in a road traffic collision.
Luis Yamil Marcano was fatally injured while riding his motorbike in Puerto Rico on Sunday night. Reports state the 19-year-old's vehicle was involved in an incident with a truck – and the other driver is yet to be located.
Top apprentice rider Marcano had only just learned he was going to become a father, as he moved his career to Florida, US. After a successful race at Tampa Bay Downs, the location for the tragic teen's intended debut on Friday, his colleague John Hiraldo paid tribute.
"He’s been on my mind since (the accident) happened,” said the rider via Paulick Report, after winning a maiden claiming event Vicious Moves. "He was a humble person who liked to crack jokes and make you laugh. Everybody he met got along with him.”
Marcano, who had competed for a year, topped the apprentice standings at Belterra Park, Ohio, in 2023. In his short career he recorded 52 wins from 382 appearances, with his horses earning more than £550,000.
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JMS Racing Stables has launched a Gofundme campaign to assist his family and said: "He had recently found out he was going to be a father for the first time and was very proud of that moment. Luis lived with no fear and was so full of life.
"He always had the most infectious smile and laugh that would light up any room. He loved his family and friends deeply while always being concerned and willing to help in anyway that he could."
Marcano's friend John Hiraldo said: "Everybody he met got along with him” (@WapaTV/NoticiasdePonce/Twitter)After attending the same riding school as dual champion jockey John Velazquez, Marcano started his 12-month professional career on New Year's Day at Camarero, Puerto Rico. He subsequently made appearances at tracks including Keeneland and Turfway Park.
The Puerto Rican Gaming Commission said in a statement: "Luis Yamil, an exceptional and passionate rider, represented the best of our sport with his dedication and talent.
"His early departure fills us with sadness, but his legacy fills us with pride for all that he accomplished in his short career. We extend our deepest condolences and a strong hug of solidarity to his family, friends and the entire equestrian community that today mourns his loss.
"May you find comfort in his inspiring legacy and in the memories of his triumphs and his fighting spirit."