Jockey Victor Espinoza has received a three-day suspension for
his riding in the Santa Anita Derby, while Garrett Gomez was fined
for punching Espinoza afterward.
Espinozas suspension begins April 11, while Gomez was fined
$750. The California Horse Racing Boards stewards handed down the
penalties Sunday at Santa Anita.
An incident at the five-sixteenths pole in Saturdays race
sparked the drama. Gomezs horse, Lookin At Lucky, took up and was
shuffled back midway on the turn when Espinozas horse, Whos Up,
angled to the rail while running second.
Gomez lost his chance at winning, but rallied to finish third,
beaten six lengths by Sidneys Candy. Whos Up finished ninth in
the 10-horse field.
The stewards conducted an inquiry after the race, but took no
action.