DeGregory, born in Greenwich, N.Y., about 10 miles from Saratoga Springs where he was raised, served in the Army at Ft. Belvoir, Virginia, with Dick Groat, a lifelong friend now 85 who would go on to play shortstop with second baseman Bill Mazeroski for the World Series champion Pittsburgh Pirates in 1960 and be named National League MVP.
“My roommate in the service was (former catcher and longtime broadcaster and comedian) Bob Uecker,” said DeGregory. “He's my buddy and I love him. He's still kicking.”
As is DeGregory, a living treasure of racing history who has represented seven Hall of Fame jockeys: Angel Cordero Jr., Chris McCarron, Laffit Pincay Jr., Bill Shoemaker, Alex Solis, Jacinto Vasquez and Jorge Velasquez, in addition to Victor Espinoza, Darrel McHargue and Joel Rosario, each with Hall of Fame credentials as well.
