Tyler Baze Back on Course, Sets Sights for the Top

By Ed Golden for the Oak Tree Racing Association

Super Strut Under Tyler Baze

Tyler Baze has overcome physical and emotional issues that might have permanently discouraged a less-determined rider. He now has his sights set with optimism on the future.

The Eclipse Award winner as North America’s outstanding apprentice of 2000, Baze is winning again with regularity. Through nine days of Oak Tree’s 31-day meeting, the Seattle native had nine wins to tie David Flores for second in the standings, three behind leader Victor Espinoza.

“I feel good,” said Baze, who turns 25 on Oct. 25. “I’m healthy and I want to get back on top. I want to ride in stakes and ride the best horses in the country. That’s my goal, to get back where I was a couple years ago when I was leading rider at Hollywood Park (59 wins at the 2004-05 spring/summer meet).”

Baze hired Ron Ebanks as his agent several months ago after being guided by veteran Ivan Puhich from the outset of his career in 1999. The parting was amicable and has proved beneficial. “Ronnie’s representing me, but I still talk to Ivan all the time,” Baze said. “Ivan is a personal friend, but it was just time for something different. Ron’s been great. He’s a good agent and does a good job.”

Baze missed a stretch two years ago to recuperate from an eating disorder and a bout with alcoholism. He endured a riding slump at Del Mar which reached 62 straight losses. Time has healed those wounds.

“I think the break I had has really made a difference,” Baze said. “People don’t understand we work 364 days a year. The track’s only closed on Christmas, and that’s mentally tough on a jockey. It’s tough maintaining your riding weight, and weight is an issue with all jocks. It’s a pain, and you’ve got to constantly watch it. It’s been real tough mentally, especially getting back to my old work ethic. But thankfully, I’m on the way now.”

One physical improvement Baze made involved his dental hygiene. He had braces applied two years ago, and later had his front teeth capped.

“They’re great,” Baze said, flashing a leading man’s smile. “And they look good in the winners’ circle pictures.”

This entry was posted on Monday, October 8th, 2007 at 2:15 pm and is filed under Featured Articles. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.