Born Sept. 7, 1930 in Fresno, California, Leon became a contract rider with Rex Ellsworth in the 1950s and 60s. While working under Hall of Fame trainer Mesh Tenney, Leon was nicknamed “The Cheetah.”

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, Aaron Gryder, 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.

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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.

The post Luis ‘The Cheetah’ Leon, Former Jockey, Valet Passes At 90 appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.

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