Lavelle "Buddy" Ensor

Biography

During the three-year period of 1918 through 1920, Baltimore native Lavelle “Buddy” Ensor was recognized as one of the most talented and accomplished American jockeys. He won 117 races in 1918, followed with 70 wins in 1919, and enjoyed what is generally considered his best year in the saddle during 1920 with 116 wins from 372 mounts and earnings of $192,244. His 31-percent win rate in 1920 was the highest of the year, and his win total was second only to Hall of Famer James Butwell.

Ensor was known for his ability to get horses to run for him; he had good hands and an excellent sense of pace. Ensor was brought to the races by Hall of Fame trainer H. Guy Bedwell, with 1917 being his first season of note. During an 11-day span in 1919, Ensor won 33 races, taking five of six on one card.

Ensor rode for top owners such as Hall of Fame members Harry Payne Whitney and C. V. Whitney, as well as Walter M. Jeffords, Richard T. Wilson, and Harry F. Sinclair. His mounts included Hall of Famers Grey Lag and Exterminator, and he won top races such as the Coaching Club American Oaks (1918, 1919), Saratoga Special (1918), Suburban Handicap (1919), Travers Stakes (1919), Champagne Stakes (1920), Brooklyn Handicap (1920), Pimlico Cup (1920), and Remsen Stakes (1920), among others.

Personal problems sidelined Ensor from 1922 through 1931, but he returned to ride sporadically in the 1930s and made comeback attempts as late as 1945. He died two years later at the age of 47. Ensor is credited with 436 career wins.

Achievements

Won the Coaching Club American Oaks — 1918, 1919
Won the Saratoga Special — 1918
Won the Suburban Handicap — 1919
Won the Travers Stakes — 1919
Won the Brooklyn Handicap — 1920
Won the Champagne Stakes — 1920