Jockey Hector J. Caballero has been suspended 10 days for “misuse of the riding crop” after the finish of a race at Parx Racing in Bensalem, Pa., on July 27.
Caballero, aboard Belongs to Babe in the 10th race for maiden fillies and mares, 3 and up, raised his right arm over his head and struck his mount in the neck with the riding crop as he was pulling her up after crossing the wire in second place. Belongs to Babe, a 4-year-old Musket Man filly making her second career start, was awarded the win via disqualification after the first-place finisher, Solid Gold Dancer was judged to have impeded the filly who finished third.
Pennsylvania State Hosre Racing Commission stewards conducted a hearing with Caballero on July 30 and issued a ruling on Aug. 3. The suspension is to run from Aug. 6-15.
Stewards said Caballero was in violation of 7 Pa. code section 305.291 (D), 305.293(A)(2) and 185.2.
Section 305.291 (D). Use of a riding crop, states: The riding crop shall be used during a race for safety, correction and encouragement of the horse in an appropriate, proportionate and professional manner, taking into account the rules of racing herein. The stimulus provided by the use of the riding crop shall be monitored by the Stewards at all times so as not to compromise the health, safety and welfare of the horse.
Section 305.293 (A)(2). Prohibition, states: Prohibited use of the riding crop includes but is not limited to striking a horse: During the post parade or after the finish of the race except when necessary to control the horse.
Section 185.2. Conduct of licensee, states: A licensee shall not, alone or in concert with another person, engage in inappropriate, illegal or unethical conduct which violates the Commission's rules and regulations of racing, is inconsistent with the best interests and integrity of racing or otherwise undermines the general public's faith, public perception and confidence in the racing industry.
The Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission is in the process of approving rules previously adopted in Maryland and Delaware restricting a jockey to six strikes – and no more than two in a row – from the quarter pole to the finish of a race.
Cabellero's actions were brought to the attention of the Paulick Report, which posted the following video on Twitter.
Stewards at @parxracing said they will be meeting with jockey Hector Caballero Thursday morning concerning this incident after the finish of Monday's 10th race. We'll try to find out from the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission if there are any sanctions. pic.twitter.com/NTqMG45t6x
— Ray Paulick (@raypaulick) July 28, 2020
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