THE SIDELINES : Suspension of Cordero Upheld
The state Racing and Wagering Board’s 10-day suspension of jockey Angel Cordero because of “foul riding” at Saratoga in 1989 was upheld by a state appeals court.
The Supreme Court’s Appellate Division said in a 4-0 ruling Thursday that there is “substantial evidence in the record to support the board’s determination” that Cordero deliberately interfered with another horse.
The offense occurred in the fifth race on Aug. 26, 1989, when Cordero was riding Foresta into the homestretch and the lead when Sultry Secret, ridden by Eddie Maple, came up on his left. Foresta veered left, impeding Sultry Secret and forcing him to the rail.
The track steward said Cordero made little effort to avoid contact with the competing horse, and a hearing officer said later that videotapes of the race “strongly” supported the track steward’s finding.
“Horses are not like automobiles,” Cordero said in a deposition. “A jockey can only do so much to alter a horse’s course.”
Cordero was allowed to ride pending the outcome of the appeal.
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