The racing world was shocked and saddened by the news of jockey Alex Canchari’s death on March 2, 2023. The 29-year-old rider, who had achieved over 1,000 career wins and a graded stakes victory, took his own life on March 1, according to his sister Ashley Canchari. The reason behind his tragic decision remains unknown, but his death has raised awareness of the mental health challenges that jockeys face in their profession.
A Racing Family
Alex Canchari was born into a racing family in Shakopee, Minnesota. His father, Luis Canchari, was a trainer and rider from Peru who died in December 2020. His brother, Patrick Canchari, was also a jockey who was paralyzed in a car accident in March 2020. Alex was married with two children.
Alex followed his father and brother’s footsteps and became a jockey in 2011. He rode mainly at Canterbury Park and Prairie Meadows, where he was a fan favorite and a respected competitor. He reached his 1,000th career win at Canterbury Park on May 25, 2022, aboard Tonka Warrior. He said he loved the local fans and grew up working at the concession stand as a kid.
He also achieved his first graded stakes win at Prairie Meadows on July 5, 2020, when he guided Flat Out Speed to victory in the Iowa Oaks (G3). He earned over $28 million in purses throughout his career and won 120 races in his best year in 2018.
A Shocking Loss
Alex Canchari had not ridden since October 2, 2022, when he finished third on Tizamagician in the Oklahoma Derby (G3) at Remington Park. His last mount at Prairie Meadows was on September 27, 2022, when he won on Miss Perfecta.
His sudden death came as a shock to many who knew him and admired him. His sister Ashley posted a heartbreaking message on Facebook, saying she was “devastated” and “in disbelief”. She asked for prayers and privacy for her family.
Many fellow jockeys, trainers, owners, and fans expressed their condolences and tributes on social media. They remembered him as a talented, genuine, kind, and humble person who loved his family and his horses. They also urged anyone who is struggling with mental health issues to seek help and support.
A Call for Action
Alex Canchari’s death has also highlighted the need for more awareness and resources for jockeys’ mental health. Jockeys face many challenges and pressures in their profession, such as weight management, injuries, accidents, competition, travel, isolation, and financial insecurity. These factors can take a toll on their emotional well-being and lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts.
According to BloodHorse, there have been several cases of jockeys taking their own lives in recent years. Some of them include Garrett Gomez (2016), Jose Flores (2018), Euclyn Prentice Jr. (2019), Maria Borell (2020), and Heriberto Figueroa (2021).
There are some organizations that provide support and assistance for jockeys’ mental health, such as the Jockeys’ Guild, the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, and the Racing Surfaces Testing Laboratory. However, there is still a need for more education, awareness, and advocacy to prevent further tragedies and to help jockeys cope with their challenges.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact a mental health professional or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or (800) 273-TALK. You are not alone.
