Baltimore Jockey Camacho Wins His First at Home

(from Pimlico report)
Baltimore native Eric Camacho rode his first winner Sunday in the first race at Pimlico.

Camacho, a 20-year-old from Anne Arundel County, sent even money Love Game to the lead in the six furlong test and arrived home 7-3/4 lengths the better of his five 3-year-old rivals. The Julio Cartagena trained Love Game paid $4.

"I want to be the best," he said. "I still have a long way to go."

Camacho was greeted with the traditional shower of water and talcum powder from his fellow riders as he mounted the steps to the jockey's quarters after posing in the winner's circle. He is the son of a former rider, Enrique Camacho.

His first victory came after eight mounts. Two races later, he piloted Danceaway Girl ($16.20) to victory for trainer Tim Salzman.

Elsewhere, apprentice rider Brandon Whitacre began a five day suspension Sunday for allowing his mount, Jessica's Pride, to bear in at the top of the stretch and cross without sufficient clearance in Wednesday's first race. The 20-year old is tied for 10th in the Pimlico spring standings with four victories.

(Chart, Equibase)