Trainer Jorge Lara

Born: 06/02/70, Mexico City, Mexico

Resides: Bossier City, Louisiana

Family: Christian, son 

Jorge is a highly promising young horseman, now in the fourth year of being on his own. He finished in a tie for third place with Steve Hobby in the final trainer standings at the 2009 Oaklawn meeting.  

Last year Lara started 104 horses at the Spa. 

It is noteworthy that Jorge had been assistant trainer to Cole Norman nine years.  

Starting in 2001 Norman won six consecutive training titles at Oaklawn. 

On a national level in 2007, Lara ranked among the national leaders with more than 100 winners, his horses having earned more than $1.5 million. 

Even as a youngster, Jorge always figured he would have a racing career. He recalls that, as a young man, he was a jockey and started riding at the Hipodromo de Las America track in Mexico City. 

“I grew up in Mexico City. There are several jockeys and horse people in my family. I came to the states and recall winning a race here at Oaklawn. I also rode at Louisiana Downs. 

He went to work for Norman as an exercise rider and eventually was named assistant trainer. 

When asked his philosophy of horse training, Jorge answered, “Feed right, train right and keep your horses happy. At our barn we don’t run, just to be running. We run when a horse is ready and we think it can win,” avowed Jorge.