Monmouth Stewards Suspend Carlos Lopez for Whip Violations

[Wandering Eyes]

For the first time since the controversial rules regarding the use of the whip were issued by the New Jersey Racing Commission, the Monmouth Park stewards have seen fit to suspend a jockey for violating the regulations. According to jockey agent Kevin Witte, his rider, Carlos E. Lopez, was suspended five days and fined $500 for his actions during a July 11 race at Monmouth.

As of midday Friday, there was still no word on the fate of Monmouth jockey Carlos Montalvo, who, also on July 11, used his whip aboard a mount that was bearing out on the far turn. Montalvo has stated that he used the whip for safety reasons because the horse was getting out. The rules allow for a jockey to use the whip when he or she feels it is necessary for safety.

Witte said the suspension was issued July 18. The New Jersey Racing Commission does not allow its stewards to speak to the media and the commission itself does not normally field inquiries from reporters. There is a section on the commission's website regarding stewards rulings, but it has not been functioning over the last several weeks. As of noon Friday, the New Jersey Racing Commission had not returned a phone call regarding both the Montalvo and Lopez matters.

In his first ride ever at Monmouth, Lopez was aboard Venezuelan Talent (Outwork) in a maiden special weight race. He had a narrow lead in the stretch before being confronted on the outside by the eventual winner Emirates Affair (Handsome Mike). Lopez went to the whip in an obvious attempt to encourage the horse. He finished second behind Emirates Affair.

Witte said Lopez accepted responsibility for his actions, but added that his unfamiliarity with Monmouth and the rules was a factor.

“It was the first time the rider rode there and he does not speak any English,” Witte said. “He was told in Spanish by another rider not to hit the horse. He understood but he carried the stick to be safe. Coming down to the wire he was in front, he felt pressure from the outside and he reacted. Jockeys have a habit of riding the way they ride. He understood the rule, but they were coming down to the wire, he was in front, felt pressure from the outside. It was just a mistake. He was used to whipping coming to the wire. He came back and said, 'I messed up. I apologize.'”

Lopez's suspension will begin July 24 and run through July 29.

Without access to the stewards or the racing commission, the TDN was not able to determine whether or not Venezuelan Talent was disqualified from purse money because of Lopez's use of the whip.

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