‘An Unbelievable Loss’: Jockey Alex Canchari Dies Unexpectedly

Midwest-based jockey Alex Canchari died unexpectedly at age 29 on Wednesday, confirmed Terry Meyocks, president and CEO of the Jockeys' Guild.

“It's extremely sad,” Meyocks said. “That family has been through so much the last three years.”

Patrick Canchari, Alex's older brother and also a jockey, was critically injured in an automobile accident in March of 2020. The traumatic brain injury Patrick suffered has led to ongoing health problems. Family patriarch Luis Canchari, who rode and trained after emigrating from Peru and with whom Alex was extremely close, passed away in December of 2020.

Alex Canchari hadn't ridden since Oct. 2, 2022, at Prairie Meadows Racetrack in Altoona, Ia. Over the course of his career, Canchari rode 1,044 winners for earnings of over $28 million, and was especially well-known at Canterbury Park and Oaklawn Park.

Alex Canchari leaves behind fiance Brooke-Lyn, son Leon, daughter Penelope, and another unborn child who is due in August.

Ashley Canchari, Alex's sister, created a GoFundMe for her brother's family.

“We are speechless and completely heartbroken about the passing of my brother, Alex,” Ashley wrote. “Alex had a heart of gold and encouraged and saw the good in everyone. We wish he could have seen that light in himself.

“All funds raised will benefit his children. Due to the circumstance of his death, there are no life insurance policies available.”