Venezuelan jockey Luis Ramon Rodriguez endured “two of the hardest days of my life” after being detained by immigration authorities at a checkpoint in New Mexico. Rodriguez, who has worked as a professional rider in the US since 2010, was released on Wednesday night after attorneys, racing officials and local horsemen intervened on his behalf.
Detained at State Border
Rodriguez, who is based at Albuquerque racecourse in New Mexico, was on his way to work from his home in El Paso, Texas when he was stopped at the state border on Monday. The jockey has authorisation to compete in the US until 2028 as a foreign athlete, but the date on his passport had expired, according to the Paulick Report.
After being taken into custody by border officers, Rodriguez posted on his Facebook account to alert family and friends of his situation. “I want to let you know that I was just detained by immigration authorities at the checkpoint in Las Cruces, New Mexico,” he wrote. “I have been informed that I will be transferred to El Paso, Texas. At this moment, I am trying to contact my attorney and resolve this situation.”
Family Support and Release
Rodriguez went on to ask if someone could organise a GoFundMe to support his family because “from this moment on, I may no longer have access to my phone or be able to stay connected. My biggest concern right now is my family and making sure they have the support they need,” he said.
After his release, Rodriguez posted an emotional message on his account: “After going through two of the hardest days of my life, I am finally back home with my family. There are moments in life that you will never forget, and I will never forget the people who stood beside me when I needed them the most.”
Return to Racing
He added: “I went through three different detention facilities. Those two days were something I never imagined I would experience. But through every difficult moment, I kept my faith in God. By the grace of God and with the help of so many incredible people, I was released and I am home with my family.”
Rodriguez, who has partnered 410 winners of more than £5 million in prize-money, will return to action on Saturday with three rides at Albuquerque.
