Willie Shoemaker

 

The Golden Gate Fields Winners Circle is named for him commemorating his first win there at age 18. Became the nation's leading rider for 41 years (1949-1990) with 8,833 wins. Won every major race in the country including four Kentucky Derbys and multiple stake races at Golden Gate Fields, Bay Meadows, and old Tanforan. Inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.