Shoemaker in Critical Condition After Crash

Willie Shoemaker, 59, who retired only 14 months ago as the all-time leading rider in thoroughbred racing, was critically injured when his car went out of control and then rolled over several times Monday night on a freeway transition road in San Dimas, the California Highway Patrol reported.

The CHP arrested Shoemaker on suspicion of misdemeanor drunk driving, then released him for medical treatment at Glendora Community Hospital, where he underwent surgery for a broken pelvis and severe internal injuries. CHP Officer Joe Flores said Shoemaker also suffered severe scalp cuts.

CHP Officer Clancy Mitchell said no liquor was found in Shoemaker’s car. “We don’t know where he was going or where he’d come from,” Mitchell said.

Shoemaker was driving a Ford Bronco about 8 p.m. when he went off the southbound Highway 30 transition road to the Foothill Freeway. “He drifted to the side of the road, tumbled over several times and then went over an embankment,” Flores said. “He may have gone to sleep.”

Shoemaker rode in his final race Feb. 3, 1990, before 64,573 at Santa Anita, capping a 41-year riding career. Shoemaker rode 8,833 winners and earned $123,375,524 in purses.