Another Lopez reaches the winner's circle

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Oceanport, NJ (Sports Network) - Third generation jockey David Lopez won his first career race Friday afternoon at Monmouth Park. Lopez is the fifth member of his extended family to score a victory as a jockey.

"It's everything I thought it would be and more," the 21-year-old apprentice rider said. "I've been waiting for this since I was a little kid - watching my dad and learning from him. You never know, but I always hoped it would happen this quickly."

Lopez is the son of veteran jockey Chuckie Lopez who has won nearly 4,000 races and $82 million.

"I couldn't be prouder of him," said the beaming father. "He's paid his dues and waited a long time for this. I'm just so proud."

The younger Lopez won Friday's fourth race at Monmouth Park on 55-1 longshot I Did It His Way. It was a two-length victory for the four-year-old colt and the up and coming reinsman.

Following the winner's circle ceremony, Lopez was greeted with buckets of ice water from his fellow fourth-race riders before being doused with shaving cream, eggs and even more water back at the jockey's room.

Along with his father, Lopez joins grandfather Carlos Lopez Sr., uncle Carlos Lopez Jr. and brother Erick Lopez as race winning jockeys.