Gilbert W. Patrick
Known for his nerve, keen sense of pace, and physical vigor, Gilbert Watson Patrick rode champions of the turf in four successive decades in the 19th century.
1970
1817, Fishkill Plains, New York
1882, New York City, New York
1836-1879
Biography
Known for his nerve, keen sense of pace, and physical vigor, Gilbert Watson Patrick rode champions of the turf in four successive decades in the 19th century.
Commonly referred to as “Gilpatrick,” he was born in Fishkill Plains (near Poughkeepsie), New York, in 1817, and first gained recognition as the rider of Hall of Fame member Boston, champion during the days of heat racing at four miles in the 1830s and 1840s.
In 1855, Patrick rode the son of Boston — Hall of Fame member Lexington — when he set the world record for four miles at 7:19¾ in New Orleans. In the 1860s, he rode one of Lexington’s best sons, Hall of Fame member Kentucky, to victory in the inaugural running of the Travers Stakes in 1864 and the first Saratoga Cup in 1865.
Patrick also won the first Belmont Stakes in 1867 with Hall of Famer Ruthless. Later that summer, Patrick rode Ruthless to victory in the Travers. Among other good horses of the 19th century Patrick rode were Blacknose, Lord of Lorn, Bascombe, Omega, Blue Dick, Santa Anna, Argyle, Monarch, Atalanta, Emily, Rocker, and Zenobia.
In 1879, at the age of 62, Patrick won a mile race on a horse named Baton Rouge.
Achievements
Triple Crown Highlights
Won the 1867 Belmont Stakes — Ruthless
Other Highlights
Won the Travers Stakes — 1864, 1867
Won the Saratoga Cup — 1865
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