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Michael says...  Derby Protest, and Sportsmanship

At the recent Kentucky Derby race, the horse Monarchos, riden by jockey Jorge Chavez, was the clear winner. Second was Invisible Ink, riden by jockey John Velazquez. 

I think Velazquez is taking gambling too far. He made a claim that Monarchos interfered with him just past the quarter pole on the final turn. The authorities' review of video from several angles, and interviews with the riders indicated no evidence of interference. Velazquez said "He came over and almost touched my horse."  Almost??  This was the fifth time in the Derby for Velazquez, who figured he had nothing to lose by making the claim. "This is the Derby. I finished second. I had to take a shot. I probably wouldn't claim foul in any other race." 

Maybe he shouldn't be given the opportunity to - disqualification for a few key races, or from future Derbys - or a hefty fine - something ought to be done to remind him about something called sportsmanship.  Oh, they do that sort of protest "to take a shot" in baseball, football, and basketball too?  I know.  And it's just too bad.

posted May 15 - June 3, 2001