Diana Pinones embodies a family legacy in horse racing, highlighting the crucial role of immigrant workers in the industry. Originating from Michoacan, Mexico, her family has transitioned into U.S. citizens while contributing to the labor force at Laurel Park in Maryland. Pinones stresses that the equestrian profession is fundamentally reliant on temporary visa workers. With the horse racing industry generating $36 billion in 2023, there's an increasing challenge as essential visa programs face caps limiting available workers, especially impacting those in non-agricultural seasonal roles.
"Everyone is an immigrant. We rely 100% on immigrants, from the hot walker to the groom to the jockey. Everyone comes from another country to work in the industry."
"Horse racing generated some $36 billion in 2023... the industry heavily relies on workers with H-2B visas to get a horse on the track."
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