Jockey Larry Wilson, aboard Miss Three Wars in the Rainbow Futurity winners circle at Ruidoso Downs in 1969, died July 7, 2024, at his home in El Dorado, Kansas.

© Til Thompson Photo

EL DORADO, KS –JULY 23, 2024–Rainbow Futurity winning rider Larry Dean Wilson, aged 82, passed away peacefully at his home in El Dorado, Kansas, on July 7, 2024.

Born on June 21, 1942, in El Dorado, Larry lived a life marked by his passion for horse racing and his enduring smile that touched all who knew him.

Larry's journey as a jockey began in the 1960s, and his career spanned several decades. He saw himself racing at tracks across Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, and Arizona.

In 1969, Wilson guided T.M. Warren-trained Miss Three Wars to victory in the $92,401 Rainbow Futurity at Ruidoso Downs for owner Paul H. Travis.

Wilson would follow up the Rainbow Futurity victory with a runner-up finish aboard Miss Three Wars in the 1969 All American Futurity behind the Walter Merrick-trained legendary Easy Jet. 

In 1972, Wilson would have another highlight in his racing career by winning six races in a single day at the Centennial Race Track in Denver, Colorado. He was also the nation's second-leading quarter horse rider at the time.

Wilson would also be the regular pilot in the mid-70s for the World Champion Appaloosa, We Go Easy, guiding the horse to win 25 of 29 starts.

Beyond riding races, Wilson contributed to the sport as a trainer and mentor, shaping the careers of several future riders. He also served as an Outrider at Eureka Downs, The Woodlands, The Downs at Albuquerque, and The Downs At Santa Fe.

Wilson leaves behind his loving wife of 61 years, Anne Wilson; his son, Justin Wilson; his daughter, Amy Eldridge; and his six grandchildren, Justine, Emily, Ethan, Brooke, Jay, and Michael. He is also survived by his sister, Karen.

In keeping with his wishes, there were no services. Wilson's life will be remembered privately by family and friends, honoring a man who was a remarkable presence in the world of horse racing and a beloved family man and friend.