West Seattle Boy rallied from last to win the fifth race Sunday and became Emerald Downs’ all-time leader in wins with 17.

The 11-year-old gelding, who won his career debut June 3, 2001, had been tied with Market Master and Bob Stories for the top spot with 16 wins each.

Fittingly, Emerald Downs’ all-time leading jockey Gallyn Mitchell rode West Seattle Boy to the record-breaking victory.

“He’s a pleasure to ride, gives it his best every time,” said Mitchell, winner of 1,221 races at Emerald Downs. “I was glad to be a part of this.”

West Seattle Boy ran one mile in 1 minute, 36 3/5 seconds and paid $10.20 for a $2 win ticket. The gelding gradually worked his way forward, raced wide into the lane and wore down Havin a Good Day in the closing yards for a half-length victory. It was his second victory of the meeting, both at the $3,500 claiming level.

Owners Lisa Baze of Auburn and Jerry Carmody of Ravensdale were presented with a special blanket commemorating their horse’s remarkable achievement. Trainer Rigoberto Velasquez said West Seattle Boy will “probably race another couple of years.”

A Washington-bred by Majesterian-Pancho’s Girl, West Seattle Boy has won 17-of-76 starts at Emerald Downs and is 5-for-16 at Portland Meadows. It adds up to a 22-for-92 overall mark with earnings of $162,962. West Seattle Boy has had five different trainers—Velasquez has had him for 13 wins—and been ridden by 18 different jockeys.

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