Jockey Carrero Fined, Suspended by New York Stewards

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Jockey Victor Carrero was fined $2,000 and suspended 15 days Friday by New York State Racing and Wagering Board stewards for an ugly incident the previous day involving the jockey and his mount, which broke down.

Four-year-old Saltaat broke down crossing the wire in Thursday's second race at Aqueduct, flipping head over heels after breaking his left front leg and possibly his neck. Carrero, his jockey, picked up his whip and threw it in the direction of the fallen horse. He then picked up a handful of dirt and threw that toward the horse as well. Saltaat was euthanized by the track veterinarian.

In a statement distributed Friday by his agent, Jose Morales, Carrero said: "I apologize for my actions following the second race Thursday, Nov. 21 at Aqueduct. I conducted myself in an unprofessional manner and I deeply regret what I did. After meeting with the stewards, I was given a suspension and a fine, which I will not appeal. I apologize to Deborah Bodner, the owner and trainer of Saltaat. I apologize to my fellow jockeys, the owners and the trainers. I apologize to all the racing fans that witnessed my actions. I will conduct myself in a professional manner from this moment on."

The 22-year-old native of Puerto Rico has ridden in New York for the majority of this year after recuperating from an injury in the spring. He finished 11th in the jockey standings at Saratoga. He lost his apprentice bug last Sept. 5.

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