Cordero Loses State Appeal

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 court said in a 4-0 ruling Thursday that there was “substantial evidence in the record to support the board’s determination” that Cordero deliberately interfered with another horse.

The offense occurred 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.

Cordero said in a deposition “I did all I could” to end the contact between the two horses after Sultry Secret’s right shoulder hit his horse’s left rump a quarter-mile before the finish.

Cordero was allowed to ride pending the outcome of the appeal.