Few could have predicted such a devastating turn for Brian Hernandez Jr., a jockey long admired for his steady hands, tactical precision, and a résumé filled with Grade 1 victories. Fresh off a celebrated Kentucky Derby win aboard Mystik Dan in 2024, expectations were high as he partnered with the promising two-year-old colt Sgt. Garcia, trained by Kenny McPeek. But instead of triumph, the day ended in tragedy, with both rider and horse rushed for urgent medical care.
The legendary jockey’s wife, Jamie Hernandez, took to Facebook to share the heartbreaking news. She revealed that the 39-year-old is currently in the ICU at the University of Louisville Hospital. “Thank you for the prayers. Please keep them coming,” she wrote. Hernandez Jr. sustained seven broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a lacerated liver accompanied by internal bleeding.
The bleeding was stopped, and the liver injury was treated surgically, but doctors continue to monitor him closely. His wife added, “Jockey life isn’t for the faint of heart. Physically and mentally draining. Hug your loved ones tight. Please say extra prayers for Brian tonight 🫶.”
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Horse Racing Today also expressed its support on X, sharing Jamie’s Facebook post along with a picture of Hernandez. Their caption read, “Our thoughts and best wishes go out to Brian Hernandez, Jr. and his family after being injured today at Churchill Downs.”
As for Sgt. Garcia, the McPeek trainee was reportedly taken off the track in an equine ambulance. Little is known about the colt’s current condition, but officials are expected to provide the best care possible. After all, horses like Sgt. Garcia are the lifeblood of the sport—and Hernandez himself has always been quick to credit them.
A reminder of Brian Hernandez Jr.’s 2024 Kentucky Derby wisdom
Hernandez has amassed more than 2,700 career wins, but his photo-finish triumph with Mystik Dan at the 2024 Kentucky Derby stood out. Following the victory, he made sure to highlight the horse’s role in the success. “I think the biggest thing about a place like that is you just have to go out there and trust the horse,” he explained. “You have to learn to stay out of their way and let them travel over the course. When you have one that handles it well, it’s actually a really fun place to ride. And when one isn’t handling the surface so well, you’ll kind of know right out of the gate.”
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By the third or fourth stride, Hernandez said, a jockey can sense whether the horse is capable of completing the course. But for him, the rider is never the star—credit always belongs to the horse. “Just give them their best chance, and like I said, just stay out of their way more than anything.”
Now, with both Sgt. Garcia and Hernandez Jr. in critical care, the racing community can only hope for their recovery. The jockey will likely need months before he can return to the saddle—if no further complications arise. For now, fans and fellow horsemen alike are being asked to send their thoughts and prayers his way.