Ortiz Jr. fined $500 for riding offense during Derby
Manager at Churchill Downs fined Irad Ortiz Jr $500 for exceeding the state’s overhand stroke by finishing fifth Mo Donegal in the Kentucky Derby on 7 May presented by Woodford Reserve (G1). His sentence, issued May 13, was the only Derby riding offense published on the Kentucky Equestrian Commission website, but one of a group during Derby week.
After consulting with The Jockeys’ Guild, the KHRC adopted new rules on riding crops last summer, banning riders from using overhand crops more than six times in a race and no more than twice in a row without giving the horse a chance to answer.
Managers began enforcing restrictions in Kentucky during the winter at Lawn Park. Runners were given the option of a $500 fine or a three-day suspension for a first offense.
Other riders sanctioned by management for breaking the riding season during Derby week include Manny Franco, Reylu Gutierrez, Brian Hernandez Jr., Colby Hernandez, Mitchell Murrill and Jose Ortiz. Additional riders were penalized in the next race or sanctioned in the spring meeting at Keeneland.
Jose Ortiz has been charged twice for violations on May 7, including winning on board Obligatory at Derby City Distaff Stakes presented by Kendall-Jackson Winery (G1).
Franco also had two offenses, including horseback riding Turnerloose finished seventh in the Longines Kentucky Oaks (G1) May 6.
All Derby weekday fines are $500, regardless of race pocket.