Jockey Michael Baze remembered at Hollywood Park
June 2, 2011INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) - Michael Baze was battling depression at the time of his death, although the 24-year-old jockey was remembered for his kindness and warmth even in the competitive environment of the racetrack.
Baze's wife, Kelly, mentioned her late husband's depression during a memorial on Thursday at Hollywood Park, where Baze won the riding title in 2007, becoming, at 20, the youngest to win a title at the track since Bill Shoemaker in 1950.
Baze was found dead in his car near the stables at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on May 10. His mother, Teri Gibson, says the Jefferson County coroner was expected to announce the results of toxicology tests on Friday.