Skechers USA Inc. signed on to sponsor the 2015 Triple Crown-winning jockey, Victor Espinoza, as he begins a new run for the series at the 143rd running of the Kentucky Derby this Saturday. Skechers branding will be included on Espinoza’s riding apparel as he races Gormley during Saturday’s big event at Churchill Downs.
“Skechers is excited to be back at the racetrack alongside Triple-Crown winning jockey Victor Espinoza,” stated Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers. “We love partnering with elite competitors in any sport and thinking outside the box. Victor was riding California Chrome when we sponsored the thoroughbred during his exciting run at the Belmont Stakes in 2014. Now we’re partnering with the man himself as he seeks to achieve his fourth Kentucky Derby victory.”
“When I’m relaxing away from the track, I’ve always loved how comfortable Skechers shoes feel,” added Victor Espinoza. “As my career really hit its stride on the West Coast, I’m thrilled to have such an iconic California brand supporting me on this incredible journey.”
Espinoza is one of 10 jockeys to have won the Kentucky Derby at least three times and if he wins for a fourth time on Saturday, he’ll be one of only four to have ever accomplished that feat. At the top of the field of jockeys currently competing, he recently won the Santa Anita Derby riding Gormley and has collected over 240 graded stakes, earning him the honor of being one of this year’s Racing Hall of Fame inductees.
This news follows the signing of ten-time All-Star Dominican-American baseball slugger, David “Big Papi” Ortiz. Skechers has a long history working with sports icons including current endorsees like football greats Joe Montana and Howie Long, as well as boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard.
Photo courtesy Skechers
