The Manitoba Jockey Club, non-profit operators of Assiniboia Downs Racetrack, have reached out to their Provincial regulator, the Liquor, Gaming & Cannabis Authority (L.G.C.A.), to formally request a full and complete review of Race 5 from July 20, 2022.
With an easy lead around the far turn, King Witt dropped back to the rear of the field, then re-rallied to finish second, beaten a neck as the 3.75-1 second choice in the wagering. He was ridden by jockey Sheldon Chickeness in the maiden claiming event.
“The unusual nature of the stretch drive from race 5 last night has caused us to reach out and make this request. When I watched the race in real time, my first reaction was that the jockey was pulling the horse up due to a potential injury,” said Darren Dunn, CEO. “When the jockey re-engaged the horse after the balance of the field caught up and then began to aggressively ride the horse to the finish line, the sudden change was very concerning.
Assiniboia asks provincial regulators to conduct a “full and complete review” of race 5 July 20, when King Witt finished second under jockey Sheldon Chickeness after having big lead at top of stretch. pic.twitter.com/GYSgeEDWua
— Ray Paulick (@raypaulick) July 21, 2022
Dunn continued: “Though in our opinion there would not have been any adjustment to the ultimate order of finish in the race, due to a lack of any interference with any other horses, that there was no inquiry posted by the Stewards created great concern with the public from a perception standpoint. As such, we felt we needed to act and make this formal request.
“To be clear, we have full confidence in our regulator and Stewards and value the significant experience they bring to our industry. We trust that they may already be reviewing this situation on their own. However, in light of what we saw last night as an operator and the significant feedback we have received, we felt an obligation on behalf of our customers and ASD Live brand to crystalize our position of concern on this very important matter. While we can't instruct or direct our regulator on how to act on this matter, our request is for a formal review and the issuance of a statement on their findings that we can share with the public.”
Assiniboia Downs racing continues Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights with first post at 7:30 pm (Central Time). The full schedule can be found at ASDowns.com.
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