Who Pat Day Is
Pat Day is a legendary Hall of Fame jockey who achieved historic success at Churchill Downs. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1991 and still holds every career jockey record at the track. A life-sized bronze statue depicts him at Churchill Downs, recreating a famous photo from his Derby win with his arms outstretched. Day is now 72 years old, lives in Louisville, and remains active in the horse racing community.
His Iconic 1992 Derby Victory
Day's most celebrated achievement came in the 1992 Kentucky Derby when he won aboard Lil E. Tee, a longshot trained by Lynn Whiting. This victory is considered one of the biggest upsets in Derby history. Remarkably, this was only his 10th Kentucky Derby start, despite riding in the race 22 times throughout his career. The barn that housed Lil E. Tee at Churchill Downs now bears a commemorative sign honoring the 1992 winner.
Why He Called 'Riders Up' at the 2026 Derby
The 'Riders Up' call is traditionally reserved for celebrities without direct ties to horse racing, but Day received this honor as a fitting recognition of his legendary status. Day delivered the call in the Churchill Downs paddock before the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, commanding the jockeys to mount up. This acknowledgment reflected his unparalleled accomplishments and enduring connection to the sport.
Personal Struggles and Faith
Day has been open about overcoming alcoholism early in his jockey career through his faith. He became a born-again Christian in 1984, two years after his first Kentucky Derby mount. His famous Derby victory photo shows him with outstretched arms thanking God, a moment immortalized in the bronze statue at Churchill Downs. After retiring from racing, Day became a spokesperson for the Race Track Chaplaincy of America. 
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