Jockey Beckner Under Observation After Spill

(from Monmouth Park report)
Jockey Dale Beckner was sent to Monmouth Medical Center for precautionary X-rays following a spill in the sixth race at Monmouth Park on Friday.

"We're able to rule out a simple fracture to the left ankle," said Dr. Angelo Chinnici, medical director for Monmouth Park. "They'll keep him there for more observation, and we should know more either later tonight or by the morning."

Beckner was aboard the 3-year-old gelding Big Hearted Way around the far turn of the maiden claiming turf race when the horse veered out sharply, unseating the rider. Big Heated Way was uninjured in the incident.

A 32-year-old native of Spokane, Wash., Beckner won the Eclipse Award in 1994 as outstanding apprentice. He has piloted nine winners at the 2005 Monmouth Park meeting, good for 17th place in the overall standings.