Ron Turcotte Condolences
As we mourn Ron Turcotte’s passing, we also gratefully remember his boundless kindness, generosity, and courage.
Ron always enjoyed meeting fans and making new friends, and he was ever gracious as one of horse racing’s most beloved ambassadors. Please feel free to continue to share your condolences, sentiments or favorite memories about Ron in the comment section below.
A Message from the Turcotte Family:
“To all friends and fans, the family of Ron would like to thank you all for your heartfelt words, memories and condolences. It is truly overwhelming to see how loved and cherished he was, and it warmed our hearts to see the outpourings from you all.
As a small token of our immense appreciation for the many messages sent, we would like to share the funeral services’ memorial cards for those wishing to have one.
We now fully understand why he would give so much of himself even when exhausted and sore. This fandom is amazing, and the memories will live on through you — thank you.”
Click here for information to receive complimentary memorial card
I absolutey loved the movie about him and Secretariat. He seemed genuinely like a great man. Please accept my condolences to the family
I know it’s been over eight months, but I wanted to leave a comment to your family. His heart was like secretariat’s heart, touching all of our hearts now my grandchildren watch that last race of the triple crown.
Just know that Rons life continues to touch so many with inspiration!
I sure hope Ron got saved ( John 3 : 3 – 8 ).
The greatest jockey who rode the greatest horse of then and still today. I have followed Ron for many years. You will be missed but absolutely no one will forget you. Rest in peace and ride that beautiful horse through heaven
Ron, you gave me some of the best thrills of my life with Secretariat & Riva Ridge, memories I will never forget. You will always be remembered in my heart. My condolences to your entire family. Rest in Peace.
Although I was somewhat aware of Secretariat in my early years, it wasn’t until later in life that I came to appreciate the remarkable story of the horse and the people that cared for him, including Ron, of course. I have the utmost respect for Ron as a jockey and, more importantly, as a person. I have 7 framed photos of Secretariat, 2 of them signed by Ron. Ron was a class act and will be missed. You can’t think of Secretariat without thinking of Ron. They were united as one. My condolences to the family.
It’s taken some time for me to process that Ron is gone. I can’t imagine the pain his family is feeling with his absence. I remember when I first met him at a KY Derby several decades ago. He was kind, generous with his time and had a smile that made you feel important. I didn’t know that over the years I would get to meet him many times more at the TC races and the Secretariat Festivals, ut I feel so blessed for all of those times. Thank you to his family for sharing him with the world.
We met only once but were tied together through the DNA of our ancestors. My mother being a Turcotte she was always so proud to tell others of her famous cousin the rider of the great Big Red. Far away from the Canadian dirt of Woodbine or Assiniboia Downs you and I had a chance to chat under the sky of Churchill Downs. French was flying, our arms were hugging and our mouths smiling like long lost friends. You were so gracious, yet we were rushed as one would expect on Derby Days under the spires. Watching you as a young girl riding compelled me to always do right by my equine athletes. I envision you with the Creator racing on a rainbow chasing towards the finish line on a Red Winged Pegasus. Til we meet again cuz, watch over us.
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ron Turcotte. I had the pleasure of meeting him many years ago at Woodbine. He was a true Canadian sporting legend and icon. Ronnie had the privilege of riding this nation’s greatest horse, Northern Dancer, and of course the legendary Secretariat. I will never forgot the thrills the two of them brought us all in 1973. They will always be linked together in history in some of the greatest sporting moments ever. Ron was a true gentleman with a kind spirit, even when the unkindness of the sport he loved robbed him of his passion on that summer day in 1978. We have lost a very kind decent man who worked passionately for the Disabled Jockey Fund. Thank you Ronnie for all the wonderful memories. Your place in history is assured. You and your beloved Secretariat are now free to run forever. Deepest condolences to your family & friends. You’ll be missed. RIP
I have met Ron several times at the old Belmont and I was in the presence of greatness . Ron & Secretariat are the inspiration for my love of horses & racing, all true athletes . I dedicated a brick in the Horse Racing Hall of Fame in Saratoga , so we will all be bonded . Thank you Ron, a great jockey and an amazing man . You will be missed greatly
Ron, you are a great person who was always fun to talk with. We talked about logging, horses and fishing. Your care for fellow jockeys was appreciated by many. Do miss the days of meeting with you and Charlie and Penny. Your humbleness will always be remembered. RIP
Mr Turcotte your absence will be profoundly felt. I never got to meet you in person, however, I did get to meet and talk with you through the Virtual Secretariat Festivals. For which I am forever grateful. You were a great jockey, very humble, kind and especially when you shared with us yourself and Secretariat’s lives.
Thank-you,
Teri
Ride Secretariat forever!🏇🏻🏇🏻🏇🏻
I was 12 when Secretariat and Ron Turcotte won the Triple Crown, I remember each race as if it were run yesterday, thank you for starting my life long love of horse racing. Thank you for being a great Canadian, you will be missed, RIP Ronny, give Secretariat a hog from all his fans.
I spent many summers in Saratoga (my family was from the surrounding area) and I loved going to the racetrack. Very fortunately while enjoying “breakfast at the track” one morning, Ron Turcotte happened to come and sit nearby. Of course I recognized him but was initially hesitant to go over and talk to him. I’m so glad I did! He was very nice and gladly signed an autograph for me on my Reserved Seat ticket stub!!!! In a strange twist of fate I came across my “Autograph Book” where I had the autograph stub tucked away the very same day that he passed. I will always have fond memories of that morning so many years ago. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
I met Mr. Turcotte at a Secretariat Festival in Paris, Kentucky. It began pouring rain as I pulled into the parking lot. No one was in the building where Mr. Turcotte and Mr. Davis were signing autographs, so I didn’t have to wait in line. I asked Mr. Turcotte to autograph my riding helmet. He noticed a smudge on the helmet, and said “looks like someone had a scuffle with a horse.” and I replied, “that would be me.” He asked me what happened and I told him how I fell off my horse as I was halfway on the saddle when my horse decided to take a walk. He told me not to feel bad. He shared a story about falling off Secretariat while he was talking with someone and Secretariat lowered his head, and cause Mr. Turcotte to fall tumble over his head. We both laughed and I told him if the world’s best jockey could fall from a horse, I didn’t feel so bad. He was a very pleasant man and I enjoyed talking with him. I will treasure that moment and my autographed riding helmet the rest of my days. R.I.P. and prayers for his family.
Ron you have now obtained the honor and privilege of entering and embracing the pantheon of riders whose talents presented them with the opportunity and responsibility of handling this country’s greatest runners thus helping to build the industry of one of the world’s greatest sports. Ron you were the last of Secretariat’s team to enter and perhaps rightfully so for having ridden him you were able to recite his life both on and off the track in competition and training in ways no one else could. You were able to retell his stories to generations of enthusiasts keeping his experience alive well into the future. You also aided the Meadow’s other great, Riva Ridge, in helping him achieve champion status, he too winning national titles. For all the other greats you rode in your career to victory, Northern Dancer being one of them, in those golden years of American racing, the 1960s and 70s, when the American breed seemed to peak, your record of determination stands fixed. RIP Ron, your legacy will stand in the books forever. Condolences to family members, brothers and friends….. Ride free in the hills of Heaven, and pray for us.
Wonderful Man who was a good “friend” to an amazing horse. God speed
What a wonderful husband, father he was. My sincere condolences to the family. I never tire of watch the Secretariat videos!
An amazing career horseman who knew how to help his horses do their very best. I’ll never forget Secretariat’s Triple Crown and always remember Ron Turcotte as a great jockey. My condolences to the entire family. Ron now rides in heaven with all his favorite horses too. Take pleasure and solace in his greatest gift to all of us – himself.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ron back in 2016 at the Secretariat Festival in Paris. I was so excited to see and meet him for the very first time. I was fortunate enough that my dad gave me some money to purchase 3 photos of Ron and Secretariat during the Triple Crown races and the first person I went to was Ron to say hi and introduce myself. He was very happy to sign for me! I did not say very much because I was in awe to be truly honest. Ron and Secretariat will be remembered forever… what they did on the track and off. To me, their Triple Crown (all three races) were in my opinion easily top 5 of the greatest moments and performances in sports history! They both inspired so many people, not just racing fans but drawing in fans from other sports as well! Thank you for also personalizing a few items for me Ron!
RIP forever. Go say hi to Red for me & maybe send me some luck every now and again.
Rest easy 1973 Champ! -Dan F
I was just a kid, but I loved watching Secretariat and Ron race growing up. To this day watching them race brings tears to my eyes. They were so connected. I think Ron had the same size heart of Big Red. Rest in peace, there will never be another like you Ron.
You will be greatly missed Ron! Enjoy the reunion! My condolences to his family and all who loved him. Rest in Peace Ron. Your story will never be forgotten.
Our deepest Condolences to the Turcotte Family. Very glad to have met him. Great person! May he now RIP.
Condoléances a toute la famille Turcotte pour cette grande perte d’un homme plus grand que nature mon héros n’est plus mais son souvenir est impérissable.
Avec toute mon affection
Celebrate his forever everlasting legacy by listening to the Number 1 song in the USA on May 19, 1973 and his Preakness Victory aboard the Super Horse, Frankenstein by the Edgar Winter Group. Held steadfast at #7 on Belmont Day. Their Hit Free Ride hints at the message of Secretariat. God Bless them.
I am profoundly grateful to have witnessed Ron’s legendary races with the one-of-a-kind Secretariat.
And, as I continued to read Ron’s experiences of the relationship he had with Secretariat and how the races unfolded, I have developed an equal level of respect and appreciation that is afforded Secretariat, as together they conquered the hearts of millions upon millions of people who knew there was something different about that team.
It’s is as if God brought those two together for a reason. Secretariat, the sensitive and brilliant soul, wrapped up in a once-in-a-lifetime body with all of the seemingly God given qualities that propelled him forward and, Ron, the epitome of a humanne being who innately and profoundly understood who Secretariat was and what Secretariat needed at any given time during a race, culminated into the a match made in heaven, to be experienced, here, on Earth.
Their Journey together had an otherworldly element to it that words aren’t sufficient to describe that union, leaving all of us in awe of a phenomena that will only comes along but once.
I had the distinct pleasure of having a nice phone conversation with Ron back in Sep 2017. He had heard a song that I wrote called “Watch That Red Horse Run” and have performed at a couple of Secretariat-related events (birthday celebration at The Meadow and statue unveiling in Ashland VA), and called me up to tell me that he enjoyed my “catchy little tune”. What an honor that he called me, and was kind enough to talk a bit and answer all the questions I had about Secretariat – that I know he had answered so many times before! When I asked how it felt coming down the stretch of the Belmont, he joked “I looked back and the other horses were so far behind that I thought they were horses coming out for the next race!” What a fine gentleman and a true legend. My deepest sympathy and condolences to his family.
Prayers to Mr. Turcotte’s family. His legacy will live on.
We shared some great times in that historic era, and many laughs in recent years. I’m certain you passed on your strength to Gae and your entire family. That is a comfort. Leonard sums it up far better than I am capable of. RIP, old friend.
I watched Mr. Turcotte win all of the Triple Crown Races in 1973. He & Secretariat made an Awesome Team. I am so Sorry for your loss of such an accomplished jockey.. God Bless his family and watch over them, Lord, and give them peace.
As we mourn the loss of one of racing’s most beloved figures, we begin to find out just how great this man was, not only on the track but after his accident, as a paraplegic for 47 years. He courageously pursued the life of a jockey knowing, as all jockeys do, how dangerous the job could be with the risk of injury or worse. Then it happened on that June day in 1978 when he suffered a neck injury that would leave him in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Here’s where Ron’s courage really took hold as this man of deep faith, pressed on while giving his time making appearances on behalf of fellow injured riders. With his upbeat outlook on life, he inspired everyone that he came in contact with to take one day at a time and try to be considerate and kind to those whom you meet in your daily life. His fundraising for the JPDF was significant to the betterment of his fellow disabled riders.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ron on two occasions. The first was at Saratoga when he graciously signed a copy of his book ‘The Will to Win’. He misspelled my name but that made it all the more special to me. The second was at Churchill when he was appearing just before the movie ‘Secretariat’ was released. I bought a Ron Turcotte bobblehead which he autographed in gold ink. I cherish both items as I’ve always had the utmost respect for Ron Turcotte, both the man and the jockey.
RIP Ron. Now, get up out of that wheelchair and climb on the back of your good friend, “Big Red”, and ride together again forever and ever more.
Toutes mes condoléances à la famille et aux proches de Ronnie, du charisme et un talent fou, un homme exceptionnel c’est sur. J’espère qu’il galope dans l’éternité avec Big Red. Merci de nous avoir tant fait rêver
Ride on, Ron, ride on!
Reunited with the horse God made: Thank you for a life well lived. RIP pal.
I keep getting teary about Ron’s passing, but I’m try to supplant the feelings of sadness with thoughts of the joy he must have felt to be reunited with loved ones, including Riva and Red. Any horse-lover would be happy to meet them in the great pasture across the Rainbow Bridge but for Ron – it will be extra-special! What a kind, gracious and caring gentleman he was, with such a giving spirit. I had the great pleasure of meeting him on two occasions and I cherish the memories. I am grateful that he was able to enjoy so many years with his family after his accident and that we lovers of all things Secretariat benefitted from his attendance at many events. He was a huge part of the PDJF and I know that organization will feel his loss, too. Rest in Peace, Ronnie, and my condolences to his family and friends around the world.
I am so sad to hear of Ron’s passing. I talked to him several times at the Secretariat Festivals in Paris and at Churchill Downs. He was such a sweet gentleman to talk to and enjoyed answering questions about Secretariat. I always felt so humbled and honored to be in the presence of this hero, the jockey that rode Secretariat into greatness and history. I remember him telling me he was just along for the ride. But, we know they were the match racing dreams are made of. RIP, Ron, and thanks for taking us along on the ride. You will be missed.
Our condolences to family and friends of Mr. Turcotte. We met him at the statue of him on Secretariat one month ago in Grand Falls. He was so gracious and kind. Rest in peace, Ron Turcotte. We hope you are once again floating above Big Red in heaven.
He was one of horse racing’s greatest. RIP
I dreamed of becoming an exercise rider because of him and his partnership with Big Red
Are you the wife of John K Adams The jockey that rode in Maryland? JK got a bad head injury. I ponied him and loved working with him everyday. RIP JK. Love you!
Secretariat was the first horse I heard of when I got into horse racing, and I’ve loved him ever since. Thank you, Mr. Turcotte, for being a part of his life, and I’m sure the big chestnut also loved being with you.
Most of all, thank you for guiding Big Red to history. May you reunite with him and race together once more in Heaven’s pastures.
Deepest condolences to his family and friends. I pray that God may comfort them in these trying times.
Brunswick has been popping into my mind the last few days and now I know why. Having just learned of Secretariat last year and seeing him run for the first time, I am graced by Ron Turcotte’s acceptance and non-chalance about the life-changing fall off a horse that resulted in using a wheelchair for mobility.
There is hardly an irony in Ron’s situation from riding an utterly remarkable horse named Secretariat to a continued love of horses and his family which, no doubt, kept him going.
Secretariat appeared in my dreams a number of times last summer after watching videos of him run and now Ron is continuing his dream of freedom, free from a wheelchair, and perhaps being greeted by Secretariat once more. Prayers to Ron’s family and friends.
What a blessed life Ron led.
Bon voyage Ron va courir a nouveau avec Secretariat,amusez vous bien dans les grand champs du paradis des chevaux.
God Speed Ron & My condolences to your family.
My condolences to his family! He was the best Jockey ever! Rest in peace. I hope you get to see Secretariat. Aka Big Red
My deepest condolences to Ron’s family, friends, and the horse world. He will forever be remembered as the jockey who rode Secretariat into legend.
Ronnie I hope my Dad met you at the gates, that you stood up and walked through knowing you lived life to the fullest. I will never forget what a great friend you were to my Father, Jimmy Zimmerman, and how he cried when you moved away. One day right after my Dad bought Lucien Lauren’s car for me you took it and had a CB radio put in it!! I remember the lumberjack in you cutting down a huge tree in our yard. I tell my granddaughter stories about you and my Dad. How she was rocked in a cradle given to me that your children used and her Dad as a baby. You changed racing forever and left a mark like no other. You will be forever in the hearts of future generations. RIP
Sharon Zimmerman Nord
Wonderful comment very well said.
This is the day I have been dreading. My most sincere condolences to his family and friends. Thank you for the memories and inspiration, Ron. Now that you are reunited with the Secretariat team, you can go looking for Man o’War to settle the question once and for all!
I used to see him at camp town races after his accident. He was always the nicest person. God bless the whole family.
I was 10 yrs old on 1973 and was blessed to have parents who raised horse and loved horse racing. I fondly remember watching the triple crown races that year and even then , realzied I was watching history being made and quite probably never to be duplicated again. sincerest condolences to those who knew and loved Mr. Ron Turcotte….Legend…may he R.I.P.
RIP. I watched Mr Turcotte win the triple crown riding the immortal Secretariat as a child. That is when I fell in love with horses and racing. My condolences to his family for losing a genuine icon.
Rest in peace, great horse racing legend.
Sincere condolences.
To the family of Mr Ron Turcotte – There could only be one amazing man to ride an amazing horse like Secretariat. They were made for each other, both determined, kind, loved people and beloved ambassadors for the sport. I was a teenage when I saw them run for the Triple Crown. It was incredible to watch.
We miss Ms. Penny, Secretariat (or Big Red) and know Mr. Turcotte. I hope the family knows the world will miss him and his knowledge of the sport. Mr. Turcotte – you are with your beloved Secretariat. Please give him our love and keep some for yourself. You will always be remember for the incredible gift you gave the world. Many thanks and love, God Bless you!
I have to add – that sitting with Ron one day in Paris, Ky while he was signing autographs and answering the golden question all fans ask him – “What was it like riding Secretariat?” – I lost it! Ron’s answer when asked, was always – “I was just barely hanging on!” When the room cleared, I asked Ronnie to stop telling people that – as anyone could be “just barely hanging on!” He then proceeded to tell me all the training that goes in to jockeying a world class thoroughbred – and that if he honestly answered that question when asked, he would be talking until losing his voice. He educated me on what it takes to become a world class jockey – lots of training, exercising, and working out in order to manage and train these large race horses. I got a good lesson, and some laughs! I still get pictures in my head sometimes of Ronnie “just barely hanging on” to the great Secretariat – it makes me chuckle!. I bet everyone would love to have a chance to just barely hang on to Secretariat for a moment……….In Heaven – Ronnie has forever to spend with Secretariat – and the entire Secretariat Team. Ronnie – You had the coolest ride, anyone could ever dream of having. You lucky dog! Keep an eye on things down here………Jaime and Jocelyn and Leonard’s wheels are always turning! Give Secretariat a big kiss from all of us, every day…….and a life saver when he wants one! Hugs and lots of Love! Keep those blinkers blinking! And say “Hi” to Ms Penny for us……….She would love to see how Paris has changed! God Bless you and The Team! Thanks for the memories!!!!……….they are the BEST EVER!!!!
What a great anecdote, Kelly. You were so fortunate to spend so much time with Ron. I am heartbroken that the last member of Secretariat’s team is gone from the earth (and Red’s foals, too, with the recent loss of Maritime Traveler) but you know that there are an awful lot of us for whom the flame of Big Red will NEVER go out. We’ll keep the great memories of Ron and Penny and everyone else close. Glad we have the “dream team” still turning the wheels, too!
Je souhaite toutes mes condoléances à son épouse et ses enfants. Ron était mon idole, je n’ai jamais eu la chance de le rencontrer et ca me rend triste ! Ron, pas juste le meilleur Jockey mais surtout un bel être humain ! J’espère qu’il a rejoint Big Red et qu’ils vont pouvoir galoper ensemble pour l’éternité. RIP M.Ron Turcotte ❤️🙏😪
Deepest sympathies to the Turcotte family. He made history in the horse racing world. He will be reunited with secretariat once again.
My deepest sympathy to the family and close friends of Ron Turcotte..May he ride Secretariat again!
Mr. Turcotte, thank you so much for all of the wonderful memories and wisdom you have shared with us over the many years and decades. You were truly a very special once in a lifetime “gift” from God. You are now reunited and running free with your beloved Secretariat and Riva Ridge. This is a song by Steve Green I dedicate to you sir, to your family, and all of your life-long devoted friends and fans of the sport of Kings. May you now rest in peace and may your memory be a blessing.
Safely Home
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HX2Pz3TBv4
Thank you for your encouragement. You and Rudy are now together. God bless you both.
Sincere condolences and prayers. I can still remember rushing home to watch him and Secretariat win the Belmont. It inspired me to become a veterinarian. He passed on the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. What a blessing to have her lead him to our Lord.
I will never forget Ron and Secretariat! The Jockey and Horse that were both built by God! Give him a hug for me Ron as I know you are with him again! Thanks for the magic you both gave us. I will never forget it!
RIP, You were a class act! ❤️
Heaven has inherited the incredible soul of Ron Turcotte.
I am terribly sorry to hear he passed away. He will be greatly missed.
I am sorry for your loss and god bless.
My deepest condolences. Prayers for comfort and healing. I have followed Ron’s career, admired his accomplishments, and his many attributes including his integrity and love for horses. He was one of a kind.
May God stand beside you and console you as you face this most heart-rending loss.
You were magic! Thank you for your dedication and hard work! God Bless You! I know your family will miss you, but now you can rest now.
My profound condolences to Ron’s family during this time. I am grateful that Ron was in a place in his life where he could share his wisdom and his humble respect and high regard for thoroughbreds, as they are unique and can be challenging to work with. But, Ron did it with such calmness and sensitivity.
There is a wealth of Ron’s thoughts about the journey he embarked upon and that enabled me to more deeply appreciate how turned in he was with the horses he accompanied on the track.
May God hold you in the palms of His almighty hands during your time of sorrow. God bless.
Prayers and condolences to the Turcotte Family, Ron’s friends, and racing colleagues and fans. Watching those Triple Crown races back in 1973 when I was 13 have left a lasting imprint in my memory. It was always great to hear Ron’s perspective on what Secretariat was like and how the races unfolded. Also I think Ron’s other great accomplishment was support his fellow permanently disabled jockeys. He should people everywhere what you could do even if you were in a chair. One of my best times on Facebook was having Ron respond to my question and we shared a few comments back and forth. He is reunited with his boys Riva Ridge and Secretariat and I hope he gets to ride all the time. We’ll miss you, Ron!
Ron… You are free of this world. Thank you for the joy & Light that you brought to all of us, along with “Big Red.”
We watched Secretariat this evening to honor you both.
Rest now
I watched the Triple Crown races..
Nothing compares to Ron and Secretariat.. they were awesome together..
Rest forever in Peace Ron!
First of all, my heartfelt condolences to his family and all who knew him.
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Ron, I felt like he was family.
He rode the greatest horse to even step onto a racetrack. That horse brought all of us fans together as a family. So, Ron too was part of that family.
Ron will never be forgotten. You cannot think of the great Secretariat without also thinking of Ron.
Godspeed Ron Turcotte and thank you.
Rest in Peace Ron. 20+years ago I ordered an autographed picture of your win at the Kentucky Derby with Eddie Sweat. I did it because the money went to the charity you supported for wounded injured jockeys.
I hope the dream team is all reunited now. Eddie, lovingly caring for Big Red, you in the irons chasing the wind, Lucien guiding you on how to run Secretariat, and of course, Penny figuring out a way to make it all happen.
I was just a horse crazy little girl that still remembers screaming at the TV when you let Secretariat run at Belmont. Still brings chills to me to this day. And I still love, own, and ride horses my entire life. You were one that inspired so many. Heaven has another angel.
Rest in peace Ron. You were the perfect person to guide the perfect horse to glory your intelligence, instincts & intuition was what Secretariat needed. Thank you for all the thrilling memories. You will never be forgotten!
As he rode a fabulous horse….he was also a fabulous jockey.
Thank you Ronnie ……..”don’t fall off”…….may you rest in peace knowing so many respect and love you.
Thank you for caring…..challenging……and your grace of heart.
Ron will continue to be an inspiration for many people for many years to come. I hope his family will realize just how many people continues to follow his legacy. He will be missed. I’m sad I never got to meet him.
When my husband had a heart attack our world was upside down. I followed Ron on his website and sent a donation to his fund. In return he called me the day I was at my husband’s bedside…. His timing was perfect! We talked for over an hour! He told me of other horses he had rode and different races he rode in…. Ron Turcotte was also a special man from Heaven. Fly high my friend’
I am so sorry for your loss. I was lucky enough to have met Ron Turcotte and shared but just a moment’s worth of discussion about his time with Secretariat. Still, it meant everything to me. Ron could instantly tell how much I loved horses. I had for as long as I can remember. Ron was a true gentleman. A legend. And I’m so very glad that for a moment, he shared his life with me. He was a special man and I will miss seeing him at Saratoga.
Sorry to hear about your family‘s loss. He was a great man. I remember watching the triple Crown in 1973 he had three amazing races.. I wanted to be the first female jockey to win the Triple Crown but life had other plans for me. Once again my most deepest to his family .
My deepest condolences to the Family 🙏. What an inspiring gentleman Ron was🙏
Prayers to the family and friends of Ronnie, he was an incredible competitor. Thank you for your contributions 😔
A hero! No other words come close.
I still get goosebumps watching The Great Secretariat with Ron aboard run those Triple Crown races. Thanks for the memories, Ron. May your family be comforted knowing how much you were loved and respected. Ride in the wind again.
Dear Ron, You are an inspiration to us all. The world watched you ride Secretariat into immortality. I have no doubt that Big Red waited to greet you at the rainbow bridge, and you both are whole and free, racing across the clouds. Godspeed.
R.I.P Ron Turcotte. The Team is back together now. We had a few storms roll thru where I live. I said that the heavens are crying happy tears and the thunder was Ron and Secretariat running together on that big track in the skies. We will never forget the site of those three exceptional races. And I doubt any one horse will beat those records in the Triple Crown.
And my heart goes out to Ronnie’s family. Thank you so much for sharing him with his race-crazy fans.
Rest in eternal peace, Ron Turcotte, in the arms of Jesus. Earthly mission completed with Secretariat. You have been immortalized with your buddy and you are a legend. Thanks for the unforgettable memories and the history you both created. Enjoy the rest.
Condolences to your family.
I’m a fan of Secretariat’s racing career!
And Ron Turcotte was “his” jockey!!
Secretariat loved Ron and Ron loved Secretariat♥️🐎♥️. Even though I was only 14 when Secretariat won the triple crown… I was thrilled that Ron Turcotte was the jockey that helped get him there!!! That famous picture of Ron looking over his shoulder to see how far back the other riders were !!!!! I’m sure that was the absolute highlight of his entire racing career !!!!! I have a lot of Secretariat & Ron Turcotte memorabilia in my home and I love showing it off when I have company.
Condolences to all of Ron’s family… he will never be forgotten & I’m sure Secretariat is very glad to see him once again♥️🐎♥️🙏.
To Ron’s family, friends and colleagues, what a wonderful jockey he was on Secretariat, now they are together in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing
I’ve loved reading about his accomplishments and being a jockey for the famous Secretariat! My sympathies to his family. Penny Patrick
Rest in peace, Ron! It was a pleasure to meet you in person and to see your perseverance over Adversity ! May God bless you and hold your family near ! 🙏🏻
The only thing I know about Ron When I watch the movie. And it was one great movie about a horse and his owner and the jockey (Ron). I don’t know know about his injuries, but may he rest in peace ❤️
To the family: I am so sorry for your loss. I met Mr. Turcotte when my grandfather, John Hughes, arranged a visit at his home. We spent the better part of two hours talking about all sorts of things, but mostly horses and riding. I only met him the one time, but he made such an impact on my life, and I am saddened at his passing. Please know that he positively affected so many people. His life made a difference.
After hearing of this loss, I rewatched Secretariat’s races and marveled at the beauty of this horse and jockey. Thank you, Ron, for giving us thrills even decades later. I’ll bet Secretariat was waiting to carry you to your eternal home.
Ronnie Turcotte: A highly skilled jockey who rode an incredible, beautiful horse 🐴 named Secretariat 🐎.
I hope that they are reunited in heaven.
May they rest in peace.
God bless them both!
Waaaaoooo what a ride … 50+ years. I was 12-13 years old when everything started in 1972-73. The end of an era in Horse Racing Royalty in history. Now the Legend is born! Rest in Peace Dear Ron, with Secretariat. We will all always cherish the memories in our minds, our thoughts. You and Secretariat will continue to be alive in our hearts eternally. God Bless you both in Dear Heaven. When I get up there someday in the future I will look for you and Big Red. I want to hang out with you both in Heaven if I am allowed by Dear Lord … Amen.
So sorry to hear about Ron Turcotte! He has always been the best Jockey ever in my book ! ❤️. I can imagine him & Big Red meeting again . 🙏. Rest in Peace ! Run Ronny Run !
Such an admirable guy. Thank goodness he was Secretariats jockey and let the big red horse go for it, even after he had one! Proving that he was the greatest racehorse that ever lived! My condolences, may Ron rest in peace and be greeted in heaven by his greatest horse.
Ron Turcotte will live long in our hearts as Secretariat’s stellar jockey in the 1973 Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing! May Ron Turcotte, your beloved family member and friend, remain forever in your loving memory and rest in peace for all eternity.
What a legend to be related to. I never met him but his story and the story surrounding him was always fascinating to me as I still dream into my latter years of owning and training with class acts like Ron. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to you on this somber day. Go rest high on that that other legend you got to make history with! Amen
Godspeed…thank you for all that you did. You will never be forgotten. You are a true legend. No one can compare. You and Red are reunited once again forever. You have a piece of my heart. I know the Lord greeted you with open arms. May God bless your family always. Thanks Ronnie for the greatest memories ever!!
Rest in peaces number one winner from Simioni family
RIP . My heart breaks for your family. But I know he’s flying home on that big red horse. 💜
My Money is on Ron & Secretariat to win the Big one in the Sky . Thank you for the memories Rip Sir🙏🏇
God blessed the man and his horse! Thanks for letting us share their amazing lives
My very deepest and most heartfelt sympathies for the loss of cousin Ron and sorrybto his family members tel mom dad and nanny I said hi
Merci , monsieur
Vous m’avez fait rêver.
Vous pourrez à nouveau vous envoler aux crins de Secrétariat
Pensées à vous
When I think back to being 15 the Triple Crown with Secretariat and Ron Turcotte was a huge part of that year. Years later I recreated the blue and white silks for my daughter’s Halloween costume. One of my favorites. I was thrilled to meet him at the late Arlington Park and I’m glad I did. It’s rare we get to meet someone who was such a huge part of our life. I believe he’s back riding Big Red once again and spending time with the rest of the gang. We’ll miss him. Thanks for the thrilling memories sir !!
Ron and Secretariat are together again. they will both be missed. Team Secretariat all the way. I’m glad I was old enough to see that Triple Crown on TV.
I’m so very sorry for the family and friends. I didn’t know Ron but it seems he “finished the race” and “kept the faith”. Scripture tells us there are horses in Heaven so perhaps there’ll be a grand reunion. Rise in Glory Ron.
THE KEEPER OF THE STARS, KNEW WHAT HE WAS DOING WHEN HE BROUGHT RONNIE AND SECRETARIAT TOGETHER……………THERE WILL NEVER BE ANOTHER PERFECT MATCH AS THIS ONE WAS…………THE STATISTICS SAY THE TRIPLE CROWN RECORDS WILL NEVER BE BROKEN AT ONE TIME – AND THIS TEAM OF HORSE AND RIDER WILL BE STUDIED FOREVER………….IT WILL BE UP TO US WHO WERE THERE FROM THE BEGINNING TO THE VERY END – TO KEEP THE BIG RED FLAME BURNING WHETHER IT BE FROM HERE OR FROM HEAVEN – IN HONOR OF THEIR INCREDIBLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS TOGETHER! THIS IS THE MOST BELOVED SPORTS TEAM IN ALL OF HISTORY – WHO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, AND WILL ALWAYS REMAIN IN PEOPLE’S HEARTS – THE KEEPER OF THE STARS, NOW HAS THE ENTIRE TEAM BACK TOGETHER – AND IT IS TIME TO NAME A STAR, WHERE WE IMAGINE THEY ALL ARE………..MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY AND CLOSE FRIENDS – FOR THEY HAVE LOST A BELOVED HERO NAMED RON TURCOTTE – WHO WAS CHOSEN TO MASTER A MAGICAL HORSE NAMED – SECRETARIAT………..53 IS COMING UP! LOVE AND WARMEST OF HUGS, TO ALL. RONNIE WAS A DIAMOND, WHO WILL ALWAYS SHINE!
Sincere sympathy on the passing of this Canadian legend.
What an inspiration Ron Turcotte was to all of us who rode horses and dreamed of great success. My condolences to all who knew him.
I am in shock and in sadness to learn of Mr. Turcotte’s passing. What an amazing person he was. I have the dvd documentary of Secretariat and he was so gracious when he spoke of Secretariat, as well as Penny Chenery, Lucien Laurin, and Eddie Sweat. He was a class act and I will remember him riding on Secretariat as well as Riva Ridge. Rest in Peace.
And also a member of the Knights of Columbus. The Columbia magazine that the KC Catholic order puts out, put out an article a while back with a wonderful article and tribute
So sad to learn of Ron’s passing. May he Rest in Peace. Sincere sympathies to all
His family and friends. 🥲💔🙏
i have always felt a connection to your family as my dad came from Bluebell and my lifetime passion were horses Thoughts to all the family I always read everything and anything i found about Ron and his long and marvelous life Prayers to you all
I was very saddened to hear of Ron’s passing and send my heartfelt condolences to his family. I didn’t know him, but his smiles and warmth showed me the kind of person he was. Ronnie, fly free with Secretariat, and Riva too.
I’m so sorry to hear about Ron’s passing. I enjoyed watching him as a jockey (replayed videos many times). I bought his famous Belmont photo, autographed by him, framed it and now it hangs proudly on my wall. He was well spoken and brought inspiration to disabled jockeys just by being himself. I was also proud that he was a Canadian.
My first thought was that he was now free to ride Riva Ridge and Secretariat, to have the wind in his hair and to ride without any physical pain. Oh, the joy he must be feeling! I never met you, Ron but I still felt connected to you.
My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
RIP Mr Turcotte
RIP Ronnie, watched every televised race in which you rode Secretariat. Hope you are riding him again in Heaven!
I want to thank Ron’s family for sharing this lovely man with his adoring fans for all those many years. I first met him at Churchill Downs in 1988 for the 15th anniversary of his and Secretariat’s Derby. I was blessed to have many opportunities to spend time with him. In 1992 at Saratoga, after having breakfast at the track with him, Ed and Shirley Bogucki, Ron drove us in his van to the gallery to see Ed’s one third life-size Secretariat bronze of Eddie Sweat leading Ron and Secretariat into the KY Derby Winner’s Circle. To see Ron move around the statue and hear his compliments was an unforgettable moment!
I don’t think enough was said about what an incredible horseman he was. While signing autographs at one of the Secretariat Festivals at the Paris Fairgrounds, fans led in two Minature horses to meet him. Ron moved out from behind the table and made an instant connection with the Minis. They rested their muzzles in his lap as he spoke softly and stroked their necks. They were oblivious to all that was going on around them. It was just him and the 2 horses. This is what made him and Secretariat an untouchable team.
With condolences to the Turcotte family from a 52 year fan of both the man and the horse.
My deepest condolences on the loss of your husband, Dad and grandpa He was a great jockey and man RIP
rip my hero
It is with great sadness we learned about the passing of your beloved husband, dad, grandpa and dear friend. The magical team of horse and rider are shining down from heaven, together once again, both running free.
A loving winning team.
We wish a full length movie would be made how Ron became the wonderful caring loving rider he was, the gentle lover of horses. His story is beloved.
A special person on and off the race track. As he rides if Red into eternity, may he rest in peace.
For some reason I was watching Amazing Grace videos on YouTube this morning, Then went to Facebook and saw the post that Ronnie had passed. I cried. I have followed him since he and Big Red won the big one. I was 12 years old. Penny lived in Colorado and I was always very proud of that. My Secretariat magazine is still my coffee table book. I’ve watched every documentary and read every article I could about Ron and his story and it is so deeply inspirational that it’s stuck with me for 50 years. I’ve watched for the reporters to chase him down at the big races on TV for as long as I can remember. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. There won’t ever be another like him. Carie, Denver, Colorado,
I was a horse crazy 11 year old girl when Ron Turcotte and Secretariat won the Triple Crown in 1973. I clipped every newspaper article and headline about the big beautiful chestnut horse and his incredible jockey. I dreamed of being a jockey myself but settled for my weekly riding lessons that eventually turned into owning my first horse at 13 and a lifelong passion with horses became a reality.
Ron had a lot to do with fueling that passion. May peace come to his family now knowing that this magical moment in racing history had an immense impact on so many young lives. Rest easy and I hope Secretariat meets you at the gates of heaven. God Bless. ❤️
Mes sincères condoléances à toute la famille.
Thanks for just letting Big Red run!!!! Rest in peace Ronnie.
Our sincere condolences to the Turcotte family and friends.
Nos sincères condoléances à la famille Turcotte et aux amis. 💐
I had the opportunity to interview Mr Turcotte when I was working for the Grand-Falls Museum as a summer job while attending l’Université de Moncton. He was very kind and open about his experiences winning the triple crown! It was such an honour ! A moment I will cherish forever.
Je suis aussi tellement fière d’avoir grandi à Drummond N.-B., le lieu de naissance de M. Turcotte et de passer devant sa maison pendant ses années de retraite. Repose en paix M. Turcotte💐
Big Red has been waiting for him. Now they can fly like the wind together again.
My sincere condolences to the entire Turcotte family and all those that loved and admired him. He was a special man who achieved greatness in so many ways. Truly a legend who graced us all as he made history for all of us to enjoy and appreciate. His legacy will be forever, thank you Ron. We know you are beaming with pride as you are once again riding the greatest of them all – Secretariat.
My deepest condolences, may your memories bring you peace and comfort.
I am so sorry to hear about Ron’s passing! I can’t imagine how his family must be grieving! He was more than a phenomenal hockey, he was part of a loving family. I was in awe of his triple crown win on the unbelievable Secrtariat. Now he’s with Jesus our Savior. He will ride again in Heaven on Secretariat too!
May he and Secretariat ride together in Heaven again amen.
Sad to hear of your passing but I am sure you are riding high in the sky toward Jesus’ throne. Thank you for your wonderful life and those amazing rides on the Big Red. RIP
Although I never met the man I admired him greatly. I remember sitting on the floor in front of my TV watching him guide the greatest horse that ever lived across the line to win the triple crown. Had goose bumps and ears in my eyes. It was so awesome. I remember when Ron had his accident and would never ride again, it really hurt my heart. My condolences to his family. Maybe just maybe, Ron and Big Red will get to be together again. I would like to think so
I just don’t have any words. I can’t imagine how the family feels. Thank you for sharing your husband, and Father with thousands of us strangers. Even though you don’t know it we appreciated it very much. He is walking and riding Secratariat in heaven now. Free from any pain. God bless all of you.
what a great lost He will always be remembered
Ron was an inspiration to many people he never knew or met including myself. When time and money allowed I bought an OTTB as my first horse and was over 40 years old when I learned to ride for pleasure. Yes, Ron it was love at first ride. At 74 I have two in the barn. Say hello to Secretariat for me Ron.
I grew up with race horses and followed the sport . Ron was one amazing jockey and my heart goes out to his family. Prayers for all and my deepest sympathy.
My sincere condolences to his family and friends. I had the great pleasure of driving by Belmont Park and listening to radio live coverage exactly as he rode Secretariat for the Triple Crown victory. As a resident of his neighbouring community, he was already famous to us, but this was an incredible
Moment I’ll never forget. May he rest in peace.
I’ am truly sorry for your loss Prayers to his family
He was a great jockey and spokesman for disabled jockeys. Thank you for sharing him with the world, and I’m so sorry for your loss. He is no doubt visiting with Secretariat and all the connections in Heaven.
My condolences to the Turcotte family on your loss. So glad he had a full life with you all after his racing career. I became a horse race fan after watching him and Secretariat in 1973. It was exhilarating! He became a legend. You could tell he was a great horseman who had a true relationship with an amazing horse.
My sincere sympathies. I met Ron at Saratoga and he took his time greeting my grandchildren. His warmth and gentlemanly behavior was so apparent. Thank you for sharing him with the world.
Please accept my condolences to the family. Mr. Turcotte was a great horseman and will forever be remembered.
Thankyou for all the amazing Memories, and Great Canadian forever in our hearts🇨🇦
Condolences to the family
Ron Turcotte was such an inspiration to the equestrian world. A true legend and horseman. I still remember meeting him at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington in 2010. He was so kind to everyone and greeted everyone with such a big smile. My condolences to his family. Rest in peace Mr. Turcotte.
Ron was such an inspiration, what a horseman! It saddens me to hear that he has passed. Thank you for the ride, Ron!
Rest in peace.
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Ron❤️
My parents had many fond memories of Ron, which they often shared with me growing up. Tina and family, I will definitely keep you in my prayers 🙏🏻
My deepest sympathies to the family and family of Secretariat. Mr. Turcotte was an inspiration to me and his accomplishments were amazing. His infamous picture of looking back on the track on Secretariat hangs in my office. I remember as a teenager watching that race and stood in amazement and look at the film often. May he rest in peace knowing how much he meant to others.
The photo of Ron looking back, at the field in the stretch, is where his life is summed up. We look back at Ron’s life and see that he took part in God’s great accomplishment. I’m sure there were prayers for victory that day which manifested into the greatest two minutes in sports history. Ron wasn’t just along for the ride. He crossed the line of victory on the track and in his life. He accomplished life through the good and the bad just as we are called to do. God Bless Ron and his family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Champion Horse and a Champion Rider, together again for all Eternity in the Heavenlies.
My Sincere Condolences to all the Family.
RIP Ron Turcotte
I’m truly sorry for your loss having recently lost my dad then mom then my brother all within a year. Ron will be remembered by so many for everything that he did in the racing world. He will be with you all in all those precious memories. God Bless you all
So incredibly sorry. Ron and Secretariat brought me such joy. I still cry when I watch videos of the Belmont. It looked like they had so much fun. All my sympathy to the family.
My most favorite jockey ever! How I loved him and Secretariat ❤️💕Hug him once for me Mr. Ron …before you mount up and ride through Heaven ❤️🙏🙏❤️Rest Sweetly Sir
I was a teen. I loved horses (I still do). I watched you ride to victory on Secretariat, and it was such a thrill! Your passing saddens us all. Big Red loved you and gave his all for you and you gave him so much also.
Condolences and prayers for all who love you who are left behind.
My sincere Condolences to the Turcotte family and all of Ron’s friends. Ron truly was the ultimate Ambassador of the Legacy of Secretariat and Racing in general. As a fellow Canadian he made me very proud. In my mind I can almost sense the Joy of the reunion of the Secretariat team and the great Horse himself! May they find everlasting peace. Tracy McKay.
This is a very sad day today. Thank you for your courage and dignity. Thank you for guiding Secretariat to greatness. The “old team” is now gone, but the memories you gave us will never be forgotten. I treasure the autographed pictures I have. Godspeed, Ron Turcotte.
What an amazing man and an incredible legacy. My condolences to his friends and family. His story has touched so many and he will be remembered.
Farewell, Ron. On our wedding day in 1973, he won the Belmont aboard Secretariat.
Some years later, he autographed a picture with anniversary greetings for me, and my wife. It’s in my “man cave” and always will be.
Mes plus sincères condoléances à toute la famille. Nous aurons toujours en tête sa chevauchée magnifique avec Secrétariat au Belmont. On aurait dit les deux en communion. Maintenant, il chevauchera le ciel.
What an amazing man and life he lived. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. Thank you for sharing the excitement of his career. My boys love secretariat and we visited Claiborne Farms. What an amazing horse and legacy Ron shared.
Sincerely,
Alex, Cincinnati, Ohio
My Hero
I want to say farewell to a great man, a man who understood a great horse, who knew this was a time for greatness and who rose to the challenge FOR greatness. 1973 triple crown inspired everyone and raised the appreciation of great animals and great people who understand and work with these great animals. Ron and Big Red raised consciousness about Human and Animal interaction and how two conscious beings could reach across species and just blow the roof of the same ol’ same old. We learned what heroic dynamism really is. It will be years and years before any other generations get to witness something like this again. We were special in getting to witness it. We are grateful. I am grateful.
I watched Ron ride Secretariat in all three Triple Crown races. His humbleness at riding such a champion and his expert riding talents made those rides even better. I admired him and thought it would be nice to meet him, but alas, I never did. My heart goes out to you for your loss, but my prayers and thoughts are with you that you will see him again in Heaven with family, friends, and that big red chestnut colt. He was a great rider and I always loved watching him ride.
Rest in peace Mr. Ron Turcotte. You, the team and Secretariat made sport’s history in so many ways. For me the greatest sporting event/win of all time….of any sport. Hopefully Secretariat was there to greet you on the other side of the rainbow bridge…
Having owned a grand daughter of Secretariat, I feel so humbled to have had a small piece of this legacy and will forever remember Ron Turcotte’s part in it. RIP Ron!
I did not know Ron personally, but I was very inspired by his work with Secretariat. What a lifetime achievement he got to experience with Secretariat. A great jockey and a determined hero immerged through the racing relationship he had with Secretariat! Absolutely awesome! I wish I could have met him and gotten his autograph. A remarkable person! I find the story of Secretariat amazing and unforgettable. May God give comfort to all his family and loved ones at this sad time.
Secretariat and Ron Turcotte were largely responsible for my love for horse racing that started as a child watching their amazing Triple Crown victories. RIP, he was a legend. Sincere condolences to Mr. Turcotte’s family, and will keep them in my prayers.
I was 11 years old when I watched the great team of Turcotte and Secretariat. Best Triple Crown to date! May they both rest in eternal peace now enjoying each other again in eternity. Blessings to Ronn’s family.
Thoughts and prayers to Mr. Turcotte’s family.
Sincerest sympathy ❤️🩹 to the family
A real legend. May he rest in peace, his small town grand falls from New Brunswick and the small village he live in Drummond will continue to honour him with the bridge named after him and the beautiful statue in town .
What a dream team…Mr. Turcotte and Secretariat. Thank you, Mr. Turcotte, for some wonderful memories of watching you ride that magnificent horse with my father by my side. Pure magic! May you rest in eternal peace.
GOD SPEED THANK YOU FOR BEING THE BEST JOCKEY A HORSE COULD EVER HAVE BIG RED AND EDDIE ARE WAITING FOR YOU 🐴 YOU GAVE US MEMORIES THAT WILL NEVER ERASE
I remember being moved to tears watching him on Secretariat win the Belmont on a little black and white tv. Films of that day still give me goosebumps. Your loved one will always be remembered for a spectacular career. My condolences for your loss.
So sorry for your loss Gaetane and the entire Turcotte family. Sincere condolences from my family to yours. Hold on to your memories, never let them fade and l hope they bring you comfort!
I am so thankful my husband Dana, daughter Mariah and l were able to stop in for a visit a few years back. What l hold dear to me regarding the visit was Ron and l talking about my Grandmother Emelie who held a special place in both our hearts. Our chat has helped me keep her spirit alive and l am so thankful we shared memories that afternoon. RIP Ron!
So sorry for your loss. He was a great jockey and a good man. I hope you have wonderful memories to buoy you during this difficult time. 😢❤️🙏
I am so sorry to hear of Rons’ passing. 🙁 I had the distinct honor and privilege of meeting him twice. Ron was truly a great inspiration to all. My heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Rons’ family and friends. RIP ALWAYS AND FOREVER RON !!! 😭💔🙏✝️🥀🪻🌷💐
Ron touched so many lives as a gifted horseman and humanitarian. He will be sorely missed. Breeze on with your great chestnut friend, Secretariat.
Ron signed my Secretariat cap when he was at the Arlington million day. A true gentleman and great horseman. Prayers for his family. Rest in Oeace.
I was 9 years old when Ron and Secretariat won the Triple Crown. For the Belmont Stakes, Secretariat was my favorite. As Secretariat and Ron increased their lead, I remember jumping up and down. I have been enraptured by the relationship between Ron, Eddie and Secretariat. Both Ron and Eddie and loved him. There is so much about horse racing that is about the money. Ron and Eddie captured the unique relationship between horse, groom, and jockey.
Sending my sincere condolences to Ron’s family I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember watching him race secretariat when i was 10 years old in the Belmont stakes and now i enjoy watching jt over and over on facebook. Thank you for sharing Ron with us and when I get to heaven I will ask Ron if i can get a ride on the beautiful Big Red.
So very saddened to hear of the family’s great loss of their beloved Ron. Also grieving is anybody who followed Ron’s racing career, such as I. Please hold this great guy & the memories you have of him close to your heart. He’ll never be totally gone. His essence will follow you everywhere. We never quit grieving our losses, we just learn to live life in their absence, over time. My prayers to you all.
Hope he’s with Big Red now riding free. 🫶🏼💕🐎
I am truly inspired by the lives of Ron & Secretariat. My condolences at Ron’s passing. I pray Ron & Big Red are running through the valleys of heaven.
My heart ❤️ goes out to all the family…. I was so proud that the trainer and jockey for secretariat were both French Canadian…. RIP . You are now with Secretariat …. You were both Worldwide renowned and an honor to the sport!
Ride Big Red to the Heaven Cup Ron!!
So sorry to hear of Mr. Turcotte’s passing, my sincere condolences to the Turcotte family. My love of racing starting seeing Secretariat and Ron Turcotte sweep the Triple Crown. I had the privilege to meet him in Saratoga and will always remember his kindness and patience greeting the hundreds of fans who lined up to meet him. Truly one of the greats, he’ll be missed.
Rest in Peace and I hope you are with Secretariat! Condolences to the family.
We are deeply sorry for the loss of such a great man . His legacy will live on. Rest in peace Ron
Ron Turcotte & Secretariat will be forever remembered….legendary in their sport….we lost a great one today….ride together forever in the clouds….my sincere sympathies to rhe family.
Rest in Peace Ronnie, you were beloved World Wide for your tremendous accomplishments! Thank You for being kind to others and sharing your vast knowledge. You will be greatly missed by us all. 🙏
I’m sure Secretariat was greatly pleased and 1st in line to meet you at the Rainbow Bridge because I feel that you belong with the Animal Kingdom, now go and win more races against the greats! 💕 🪽 🐎
RIP. Because of you and Secretariat I love watching horse racing. Thank You. My favoite team
Rest in peace to an amazing man and jockey. He was so loved and honored by many, and his legend along with secretariat will live one forever! Thank you Ron Turcott for all the amazing moments and history you made here on earth that will be talked about forever. Because of you and your story my passion for horses and the race world grew and im so thankful for that. God bless Ron and his family 🙏🏻❤️🐎
I remember watching Ronnie on Big Red racing on TV when I was a kid. So sorry for your loss!
I am from Maine and was in High School when Ron had his greatest ride. I remember being SO proud that he was from New Brunswick, right across the border from us, and how he represented all the best of our little part of the world. May he rest in peace.
I loved watching him race! He was one of my heros and he will be missed! 😢😢😢❤️❤️❤️
I’m so sorry for your loss. 1973 was the year my mother died, and the year Ron Turcotte’s triple crown saved my life. I was only 8 years old. Mr. Turcotte introduced me into the world of horses, and I can’t thank him enough. May he rest in peace and be walking in stride with the great Secretariat . My condolences.
Godspeed
So sorry for your loss. A valued man in history for so many of us. He was so kind about sharing his amazing world.
My father was friends with Ron but lost touch . He was still friends with his brothers though. Ron is now reunited with his brothers and my dad. Rest in peace.
Tammy was one of my best friends in school….
Was at their house all the time. Ron always made me feel welcomed in his home. My heart goes out to the family.
Condolensces to his family. There is never enough time to spend with one you love. Thank You for sharing him with the rest of the world in especially, his earlier years.
May God hold him in the palm of His hand.
God bless his family.
He was a tremendous jockey. His ride on Secretariat in the Belmont was the best of all time.
I am so sorry for your loss. It’s a great loss of someone who remained strong and had a generous spirit throughout life. Wishing you peace and healing.
Sincere condolences to your family for such a great loss . Now I know Secretariat is happy that your up there with him and the many amazing horses you rode to many , many victories !
To your and they’re success. Such an amazing jockey !
The news of Mr. Turcotte’s passing was announced after the 7th race at Saratoga today. He was a legend in the horse racing community. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Rest in eternal peace Mr. Turcotte. You will be missed. Thank you for the memories.
My Dad grew up with Ron. I will be forever greatful that I had the opportunity to meet with him & Gateane at their house in New Brunswick❤️My sincerest condolences to Gateane & the family 🙏🏻 RIP Ron (ride on with Secretariat)
My hearts and prayers go out to the entire family.
Ron was a great jockey, an inspiration, and as his family stated, a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. In my opinion, he had one (or rather three) of the greatest thrills EVER, and that was to ride Secretariat to Triple Crown victory! They had to be together to accomplish this; one could not have done it without the other. You have a healthy body and are reunited with your buddy. My sympathy to your family. RIP
I was lucky enough to watch Ron ride Both Riva & Big Red to their Derby wins. I always appreciated that he did not let his injury stop him from doing a lot of good things in the world. My heart goes out5 to Gaetane & the girls. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
Ron forever inspired the little 8 yr old horse obsessed child in 1972 when I first saw him riding Riva. Those two will always have a special place in my heart. My sympathies and prayers are with the Turcotte family.
God love you Mr. Turcott. A race well run. Join Secretariet , Penny, Eddie and even Sham at the big track in the sky.
You were an incredible horseman Sir and I was lucky enough to be able to watch. My sympathies to the entire Turcotte Family.
Ron was an inspiration to all. He was a gifted jockey and lively person.
I will be up there n heaven with you and Secretariat to continue ❤️ to watch you race
So sorry for your loss. I met him at a signing at secretariat
‘S birthday celebration in Virginia. Very nice fella.
RIP to this dear man, both an inspiration in his career and perhaps even more through his retirement post-injury. To all who loved Ron Turcotte, I send my most heartfelt condolences. God Bless you all — and also him as he transitions to the Lord’s loving arms after crossing the Bridge with Riva Ridge and Secretariat. They have been waiting patiently.
Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Turcotte family. Rest in peace Ronnie
I send my very heartfelt condolences to all of Ron Turcotte family and friends, the worlds loss of an amazing man is heavens gain.
To the greatest jockey ever who led the greatest horse, Secretariat, to victory! Their record has never been broken! Neither one could have done it without the other. RIP Ron! Your legacy will live forever, and your name will be spoken forever. We will never forget you! God Bless! 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️
I send my deepest heartfelt condolences to Ron’s family and friends. The world has lost a treasure, but heaven has gained a star!
I’d put Mr. Turcotte and Secretariat against any other athletic duo of the twentieth century and perhaps of all time. May they enjoy one another’s energies again, awaiting their many loved ones.
J’envoie mes condoléances profondes à la famille. Un grand homme qui a toujours fait de grandes choses pour tous.
Lui et Big Red sont ensemble encore et pour toujours. ❤️❤️
Like so many others Secretariat was a thrill to watch. He had this will to win and Mr. Turcotte had such a special bond. They will go down together as being one of the best matched duos in the racing industry. I hope that you have found your big red again and are running free in the fields. God bless and may you rest in peace. Your job on earth has ended, but a new one has begun..
So sorry to hear this
He will be dearly misst
I shall always remember him. So sorry for the our loss
RIP you displayed courage kindness and an indomitable spirit now you hiding again and I can bet who your first ride is with the team is now all together again
Ron Turcotte, The G.O.A.T., pilot of Secretariat, the G.O.A.T! You have forever left your amazing mark in the history of horse racing and your ambassadorship to the sport! Always and everyday you were an important part of the industry! Your legacy will live forever!
Condolences to your family, friends, colleagues and your loving and loyal fans
Teri Shelton
I watched Ron and Secretariat in the triple crown races of 1973. I hope they are reunited again on the other side- Secretariat will be so glad to see his old friend. Deepest condolences to his family. I’m so very sorry to hear of his passing! I have a picture of Ron and Secretariat winning the Belmont which I have treasured. It is signed by Ron which meant a lot to me.
I fell pleased to have known Ron met him thru his friend Louie. Been to his house in Canada and the one he had in New York and rode snowmobiles with him on my brothers farm in Mass.
My sincere condolences to the Turcotte family on their loss, to all of Canada too at the passing of such a great Canadian hero, and to all who treasure the memory of Secretariat with Ron at the reins.
They both had big hearts and inspired so many.
Condolences to the family. Thank you for allowing us all to be apart of such a magnificent and thrilling journey.
Secretariat was number one for me, but I do remember Ron rode other notables like Riva Ridge, Tom Rolfe, Dahlia, Arts and Letters, Northern Dancer and so many more. A great jockey. He and Secretariat will always be a team for the ages. RIP Mr. Turcotte. Thanks for the chills and thrills.
One of a kind. a terrific, talented jockey wo rode with passion and heart. Ron had such a tremendous bond with Secretariat, It is still so thrilling to watch over and over again their historical Belmont race. Both will never be forgotten. there will never bee another Ron and Secretaria!! They are both together again racing across the green pastures of Heaven as Jesus says, “Well done!” Leslie Wells
I admire your husband and father as much Big Red
The horse is as good as the jockey allows him to be
And visa versa
They share the Triple together for eternity
Mr Turcotte had an amazing life and career
I was so in awe I bred my OTTTB to a secretariat grandson
You were a legendary jockey on Earth riding Big Red to many victories and now a legendary jockey in Heaven reunited with your beloved friend Secretariat. I watched you with wide cheering eyes when I was 13 years old riding Big glorious Red to Triple Crown victory. It was magical!
I got caught many times by my dad riding my horse wide open in the horse pastures wanting to feel a few seconds of what I could only imagine it felt like for you to be flying in the breeze on the most famous horse that the world would come to know, love and cherish.
You were my hero.
May God rest your soul and many prayers and blessings to your family.
Ron was such a great legend. I had the pleasure to bring my kids to meet him at his home. We will forever cherish those memories made that day.
Our deepest condolences to all family and friends.
Rest in peace Ron
Inspirational, just as Secretariat was. 🙏🙏🙏❤️
You were the legend and you will be missed ..Secretariat came down and took you home .. now you are racing the Gods golden tracks you and Secretariat
Ronnie, run free in heaven with Big Red. I have an autographed picture of you looking over your shoulder when you were so far ahead of the pack. It reminds me that you can outrun the bad things in life.
Ron you are leaving a legacy in your wake. Rest easy dear one!
I have no words. Just…Godspeed, Ronnie. Let him run, Ronnie!!! Let him run!!
Loved Ron. He was one of the greatest jockeys of all time. May he rest in peace.
Sending our deepest condolences to Ron’s family and to everyone who loved him.
Wishing Ron a champions reunion with Secretariat. Together they inspired so many of us.
Rest easy.
I love horses, and Ronnie was instamental in my heart being smitten with a love of horse racing and my beginning to watch the sport, with love and anticipation of seeing the horse and rider becoming one, in sink in the race! He was dedicated to his sport and his love and respect for the horses he rode 🐎🐴 was evident in all his races! Thank you Ronnie for your life well lived and ridden! May peace and comfort be on your family, and the words of others bring some joy! And God Bless them! 🙏
Thank you to Ronnie for inspiring me at a young age that Dreams can come true As a young woman in the thoroughbred industry back then it was quite a challenge But I was so inspired by Ronnie I didn’t give up He was my hero and always will be My sincere condolences to his family ❤️ and friends at this most difficult time
I was 8 years old when you and Secretariat shattered a track record and won the Triple Crown. For a moment, time stood still. A moment those that were watching on TV or witnessing in person will never forget. Rest easy, Mr. Turcotte. You will be missed by so many.
All are together for ever and a chapter in history is sealed in time. The Greatest Show on Dirt!! For ever Amen!!!!
So sorry for this the loss of Ronny as Penny called him!! He was a great jockey, a fine human being. Big Red most likely would not of been the greatest horse in racing history without the great skills of Mr. Ron Turcotte!!
Sending our very sincere condolences for your loss. What a great man.
I watched from afar the Secretariat days a young horse crazy girl at the far backfield of races. Forward to Saratoga when Ron was there as special guest he signed my Secretariat bag and some prints and was so kind to talk to me and tell stories of his racing time. It was a highlight of my life. God bless you Ron and condolences to your family and friends. You touched me and millions. I’m sure you are riding that beautiful boy in heaven and so many others who proceeded you. 🥲💔❤️🙏🥰👍😇
Ron is one of my heroes. His famous photo with Secretariat hangs on my wall and inspires me. It was signed by him in his later years and he truly was a powerful inspiration for many to keep on going no matter what. Grateful for all the wonderful moments that he gave all of us. God bless you, keep you in His hands and give you comfort. Ride fast and free again Ron. Fly high.
Ronnie Turcotte, you’re Top Shelf! Thank you for all the stories, and especially for the greatest horse race in history, not to mention all the autographs! You have always been my hero!!!!
Now you and Secretariat can both run free together again!!!
Yours was most definitely a life lived! ♥️
Condolences to his family, friends and to all who, like me, loved and honoured Ron Turcotte. I can close my eyes and hear Lucien talking about “Ronnie.” At 75, I can look back on Ron riding Northern Dancer and Secretariat with such joy and pride. He jockeys my memories. Shine on, Ronnie. Shine on.
Deepest Condolences to the family. Ronnie was a great jockey and brave man. May he and Big Red be reunited, ride on dear soul ride on!
Many condolences and prayers sent 🙏
RIP to a great champion with a true racing heart. Now heaven hates has acquired a great Man who inspired all our racing industry. Together again Ron, Penny, Eddie and the great Secretariat will be forever echted in our hearts.
Though I never met Mr. Turcotte, I sometimes saw him in the 1980s in Presque Isle, Maine, at Roy’s Army & Navy and other businesses. He always wore a smile for those who recognized him. A frequent border-crosser from Presque Isle, I have been thrilled to cross the Ron Turcotte Bridge in Grand Falls, New Brunswick (on my way to Walmart to get some French-language novels), after passing the wonderful bronze statue of him astride Secretariat in the mini-memorial park listing his major race wins etched in black granite on Grand Falls’ Main Street. I enjoyed seeing his televised appearance at Churchill Downs on the 50th anniversary of his and Secretariat’s 1973 Kentucky Derby win, and other appearances often shown during major race meetings. I expect to see a tribute during the broadcasts of this weekend’s major races. It is with sadness AND a sense of awe that I express my condolences to the family and friends of this great athlete who went on to show that really bad racing luck can be turned into a wonderful and inspiring life. Rider up, Mr. Turcotte.
Ron was an amazing man with a decorated career he will be deeply missed
Absolutely the greatest event in modern day history…just a magical event that triple crown…!!!
God speed
The handsome, legendary Ron Turcotte’s exit from the world leaves a profound void. He stood as a paragon of horsemanship and embodied humility in the face of triumph and resilience and courage in the wake of tragity. He lived with grace under trial and deflected the triumph of great achievement to Secretariat. He is best known as the jockey who sat aboard and piloted the apotheosis of equines, Secretariat to unapproached margins of victory 52 years later in all three Triple Crown races of 1973. He was much more – a true humanitarian, a legend. Thank you for your contributions to humanity and for the thrills of a lifetime. Receive your wings! Job well done. My condolences to his wife family and loved ones.Requiem aeternam. RIP 💙🤍🛐🙏 The team of Secretariat reunited.
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to all of Mr Turcott’s family and friends,
As a 9 year old I remember watching Secretariat win the triple crown with my step-father who introduced me to horse racing and my lifelong love of horses and Secretarit . I have a framed and signed print of the belmont stakes with Mr. Turcottes sigmature which I cherish. One of the greatest jockeys of all time and a Canadian. Thank you for the memories rest in peace hopefully in heaven youre reunited with Secretariat ride high.
My sincere condolences to Ron’s family and all their connections.
I am so sorry for your loss and our loss, too.
It is a blessing that this man’s accomplishments were great both while riding horses and while not riding horses.
Deepest Sympathies to all the Family 🙏
Our condolences to his wife, daughters, Turcotte family and Horse Racing Family.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Turcotte family….Ron was so kind, thoughtful and generous to all of his friends and fans. Ronnie Turcotte will be greatly missed…..
I really loved talking with him whenever he was at a track or Secretariat function. He always made time for me, when we visited. We talked about logging back in the day and then, of course his racing career. Secretariat, Riva Ridge and Tom Rolfe were some horses we conversed over. Going to miss seeing him on visits. Was great when he was with Charlie Davis as well. Couple great storytellers. Penny was another plus on visits. That farm must have been a lot of fun back in the day with all the events going on. I visited Secretariat and his family’s resting place two years ago and followed his huge statue to a few places, Belmont, Saratoga and Paris. May you Rest in Peace Ron and continue to run the beautiful race and thanks for the memories, both on TV and in person.
I am so sorry for your loss. In many ways, I viewed Mr. Turotte as a hero; an icon. While I never had the privilege of knowing Mr. Turcotte personally, I consider myself to be his fan. That relationship began as a result of the year 1973 when he and Secretariat together accomplished feats that will probably never be duplicated. Together with Eddy Sweet, they forged a partnership born of integrity, mutual respect and the love both shared for Secretariat.
Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
So sorry for your loss we always think the great ones will be here forever. I’m just a fan
You were an inspiration to me. Thank you for the chats via messenger. Rest easy, Ron.
Sending my condolences to Family and friends May he Rest In Peace. Best Jockey. Ride high in The sky
In an era when public faith in the North American lifestyle was under severe threat (1968-1973), Secretariat and the manner in which this great horse performed, actually was instrumental in rebuilding hope; a superstar of pure heart did exist. However, it was this animal acted with a uniquely humble superstar jockey handling the reigns, enabled this sports and national miracle to happen. Ron will probably be remembered for thousands of years. He earned it. The 1973 Belmont is the greatest sports moments ever. Sincere condolences and thanks for what you did for us.
RIP My Condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the Equestrian Horse Racing Community during this difficult time.
Thank you for all the memories; You will be missed.
My condolences to Ron’s family and friends. He was truly the greatest of jockeys and with his beloved Secretariat created magic and unforgettable memories for us. I am so sorry for your loss.
You will be missed, great friend.