Nicknamed "Gentleman John" because of his polite demeanor, he gained a reputation for being able to handle temperamental Thoroughbreds.
He earned two wins in the American Classic Races, the first coming in 1962 when he rode Greek Money to victory in the Preakness Stakes.
While working at Thistledown Racecourse in North Randall, Ohio in 1975, he met his wife, Mary, whose sister was a horse trainer at the track.
He rode well into his 70s, competing in cutting horse competitions at the Illinois State Fair[2] and other shows in the Midwest.
[3] John Rotz was inducted in the United States' National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 1983.