Caballero Suspended for Whip Infraction at Parx

Parx Racing suspended jockey Hector Caballero for 10 days because of his “misuse of the riding crop” after the finish of the 10th race at Parx July 27. The incident occurred aboard Belongs to Babe in a maiden for fillies 3-year-old's and up. On the date in question, Caballero and Belong to Babe crossed the wire in second behind Solid Gold Dancer, who was subsequently disqualified for interference with another rival. During the gallop out, Caballero struck his mount on the shoulder, which is in violation of the State's recently implemented rules relating to whip use.

Following a July 30 hearing, the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission stewards issued the ruling Aug. 3. The suspension is to run from Aug. 6-15.

Among the rules deemed by stewards to have been violated by Caballero:

• “Prohibited use of the riding crop includes but is not limited to striking a horse: During the post parade or after the finish of the race except when necessary to control the horse.”
• The stimulus provided by the use of the riding crop shall be monitored by the Stewards at all times so as not to compromise the health, safety and welfare of the horse.”
• “A licensee shall not, alone or in concert with another person, engage in inappropriate, illegal or unethical conduct which violates the Commission's rules and regulations of racing, is inconsistent with the best interests and integrity of racing or otherwise undermines the general public's faith, public perception and confidence in the racing industry.”