Veteran California-based trainer Juan Garcia plans to retire and turn over his 25-horse stable to his son, Victor.

Juan Garcia, 65, previously retired from training in 1992 but returned four years later. Victor Garcia previously trained from 1987-’95, and returned to racing four years ago to serve as his father’s assistant.

Known as the “King of Caliente,” Juan Garcia has earned 1,924 North American wins since 1976, including six graded stakes victories. He trained Grade 1 winners Dream of Summer, the winner of the ’05 Apple Blossom Handicap (G1) at Oaklawn Park, and Ringaskiddy, who captured the ’02 San Juan Capistrano Invitational Handicap (G1) at Santa Anita Park.

Juan Garcia also claimed Native Desert for $32,000 out of a 13-length maiden win in ’96. The Grade 1-placed Desert Classic gelding concluded his eight-year racing career in ’03 with 21 wins, including 15 stakes victories, and $1,828,177 in earnings.
 
“I thought I would just start a small stable and have fun,” Juan Garcia said. “But it started getting big right away. I usually have 25-to-30 horses.”

Juan Garcia’s horses will run in his name on Monday at Del Mar. Victor Garcia will be listed as the trainer beginning on Wednesday.

Victor Garcia previously earned 138 North American wins as a trainer, including three graded stakes victories. He trained Approved to Fly, the winner of the ’89 Silver Belles (G2) and Linda Vista (G3) Handicaps.

“Victor knows the business,” Juan Garcia said. “I’m very comfortable with turning the stable over to him.”

Juan Garcia first got involved with horses at the age of six, and plans to be a frequent visitor to his son’s barn area in retirement. A Tijuana, Mexico, resident, Juan Garcia also plans to spend his retirement from racing overseeing businesses he operates in his home city.