Advertisement worn by jockey Jeremy Rose on Afleet Alex was not approved by the Kentucky Racing Authority.
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority is reviewing the wearing of advertising by some jockeys in the May 7 Kentucky Derby (gr. I) that wasn't approved by the regulatory agency or Churchill Downs. Included is jockey Jeremy Rose, who finished third aboard Afleet Alex.Racing authority executive director Jim Gallagher said the agency's staff is reviewing photographs and videotapes to determine exactly how many jockeys had ads on britches that weren't approved in advance as required by authority rules.The rule states that any jockey advertising must be submitted at time of entry and have approval of the horse owner, the racing association where the race is being conducted, and the stewards, who review the requests sent to them by the racetrack. Gallagher said the rule was widely disseminated to racing jurisdictions in New York and California, as well as at the recently completed Keeneland meet, so those participating in the Derby would be aware of it.The britches of Rose and at least one other rider bore the name of Paradisepoker.com. According to its Web site, Paradisepoker.com is based in Costa Rica and bills itself as the "world's premier online card room." Wagers can be made with real money or play money.The pari-mutuel industry has been critical of any advertising for offshore wagering entities.Any money from the sponsorship on Rose's britches was to go to benefit Alex's Lemonade Stand, the charity that is supported by Chuck Zacney, managing partner of Cash Is King Stable, Afleet Alex's owner. Trainer Tim Ritchey said he didn't have details of the sponsorship arrangement but believed the appropriate approval had been received and that it was handled by an agent on behalf of the rider.While there were some violations of the rule in the Derby, Gallagher said some other jockeys wore sponsorships that were approved in advance.Gallagher said stewards would determine penalties for the violations. "It is a violation of our rules, and the stewards will look at it to determine the proper course of action," Gallagher said.
