 Baeza began his racing career in 1955 in Panama at Hipodromo Juan Franco, and in March of 1960, was invited to Miami, Florida to ride under contract for Owner/Trainer, Fred Hooper.He rode his first race in the US in the first race on Keeneland's opening day, 1960, and won it on Foolish Youth.Braulio Baeza's success in America was instantaneous.