Edited DRF Story — Jockeys Jose Valdivia, Jr. and Diego Herrera (apprentice) have each been issued suspensions by the Del Mar stewards, reports Jay Privman of Daily Racing Form, for their roles in an incident that caused a seven-horse spill and resulting “no contest” in last Sunday’s seventh race,
There were no serious injuries among jockeys or horses, with four riders going to a local hospital for evaluation before being discharged. Among the seven horses, there were only a few lacerations that required stitches. All were back in their stalls Sunday night.
Valdivia received a 10-day suspension, and Herrera received five days. Herrera’s agent, Vince DeGregory, said the apprentice jockey does not plan to appeal. However, Valdivia’s agent, Nick Hines, is planning an appeal.
“What can you say?” Hines told DRF. “Ultra-surprised and flabbergasted, to single Jose out when the rider who clipped heels admitted fault. They’ve made Jose out to be doubly responsible.”
