Borel's nickname is "Bo'rail'" due to his penchant for riding close to the rail to save ground.

Calvin Borel hails from south Louisiana: the heart of Cajun Country and famous for having produced a number of top jockeys, such as Randy Romero, Kent Desormeaux, Eddie Delahoussaye and Shane Sellers.

[2] He is known for his Cajun accent and bubbly and emotional personality, both of which were on full display during his post-victory interview after all three of his Kentucky Derby wins.

Over a career spanning 25 years, Borel has become known for his tireless work ethic as well as an ability to slip up the rail to save ground.

Borel then won the 2007 Kentucky Derby aboard Street Sense, guiding the colt to a 2+1⁄4 length victory over Hard Spun.

However, on June 6, 2009, Borel finished third on Mine That Bird in the Belmont Stakes, failing to accomplish a jockey Triple Crown.

Borel then rode her to a six-length victory over Belmont Stakes winner Summer Bird in the Haskell Invitational.

On June 4, 2010, Borel became only the second jockey to win 1,000 career races at Churchill Downs, joining Hall of Famer Pat Day.

On March 7, 2013, Borel earned his 5,000th victory at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas while riding Hezunusual in the 6th race.