Born: October 14, 1962
Birthplace: Toa Baja, Puerto Rico
Residence: Philadelphia, PA
Family: Daughter
Started Riding: 2001, Finger Lakes
Circuit: Tampa Bay Downs, Philadelphia Park
 
Carlos M. Cruz was born on October 14, 1962 in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico.  He attended jockey school there before coming to the United States to ride. He won his first race in 2001 at the Finger Lakes Race Track, and has since ridden at venues such as Philadelphia Park and Monmouth Park in New Jersey.

The 2008-2009 season was Cruz’s first year riding at Tampa Bay Downs, and the reinsman has already made an impact on the riding colony here.  In the week of March 3—March 8, Cruz booted home 3 winners, 2 seconds and 2 third-place finishers from only 12 mounts at average odds of 7.28-1.  He completed the 2008-2009 race meet here with 30 wins, 27 second place finishes and 18 thirds from 178 mounts with purse earnings of $344,349.

Cruz says that he has many reasons to like life at Tampa Bay Downs.  “Even though it’s been a little tough for me to get started because I’m new here, the people are nice. They gave me a shot to ride and have helped me out a bunch. And I love the weather here.”  When he’s not in the irons, Cruz says that he likes to spend time in the outdoors. “I love to fish, but sometimes I just like to go outside and lay in the sun.  Of course, sometimes I just like to stay home and relax!”