A popular Jockeys' Room valet in Southern California and former jockey, Luis Leon passed away peacefully Dec. 29 at age 90, according to his son David. A contract rider with Rex Ellsworth in the 1950s and '60s, Leon was nicknamed “The Cheetah” and was seldom without a smile.
As a valet, his services were in keen demand and he worked for a number of top riders over the years including Eddie Delahoussaye, Patrick Valenzuela, Martin Pedroza, Rafael Meza, David Flores and many others.
Following his retirement from the Jockeys' Room, Leon and his wife lived on his ranch southeast of San Diego, where he had fruit trees and cattle.
Leon, who had been in failing health the past several years, had suffered a heart attack recently and succumbed to the effects of the COVID-19 virus while hospitalized. Services are pending.
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