LEXINGTON, KY (October 24, 2012) – Jockey Julien Leparoux became the fifth rider in Keeneland’s 76-year history to reach the 300-win plateau Wednesday when he guided Son of a General to victory in the sixth race.
A 29-year-old native of Senlis, France, Leparoux first rode at Keeneland in 2005. He has won eight riding titles – seven outright – including the past four. Leparoux has earned two Eclipse Awards as outstanding rider.
With four victories total on Wednesday’s card, Leparoux has opened a 22-11 lead over his closest pursuer, Corey Lanerie, with three days remaining in the 17-day meet. A ninth riding title would move Leparoux to fourth all time at Keeneland behind Pat Day (22), Don Brumfield (16) and Steve Brooks (10).
Day is Keeneland’s all-time leader in victories with 918 and is followed by Brumfield (716), Robby Albarado (444) and Shane Sellers (412).
In Wednesday’s featured Diamond A Purse for fillies and mares, Warm Glow surged past the leaders in deep stretch under Rosie Napravnik for a two-length victory for owner-trainer Jonathan Sheppard before a crowd of 10,655.
Sent off as the second choice in the field of 12, Warm Glow covered the mile on a firm turf course in 1:36.21.
A 4-year-old daughter of Sky Classic, Warm Glow returned $7.60, $4.20 and $3.20. Marlin Mission finished second under Shaun Bridgmohan and returned $6 and $4.60 with Honey Talk finishing third under Lanerie and returning $4.40 to show.
The final week of racing at the 17-day Fall Meet continues Thursday with a nine-race program. First post time is 1:05 p.m. (ET).