Two jockeys were hospitalized Thursday after falling from their horses during the second race at Churchill Downs.
Irving Moncada and Emmanuel Giles had to be transported off the dirt track by ambulance after coming from their horses at the far turn during a 1 1/16-mile, $20,000 maiden claiming event with a payout of $42,000.
Joe Paulley, Moncada’s agent, informed The Courier Journal that Moncada was knocked unconscious while riding Territoriality. Nearly two hours after posting (1:15 p.m.), Paulley reported that Moncada had recovered consciousness at UofL Hospital and was having scans. Moncada was released from the hospital on Thursday evening, all clear.
Spectators at the last bend reported to The Courier Journal that Moncada never moved while being put onto a trolley and into the ambulance.
Giles was also sent to UofL Hospital. Giles’ agent, Nancy Bahena, told The Courier Journal that he suffers discomfort in his shoulders and back. They are presently waiting for X-rays and CT scans.
Back in the receiving barn, as a state veterinarian examined Vostra, trainer Jeffrey Jones told The Courier Journal that no one would provide an update on Vostra’s jockey, Giles. Jones also stated that he didn’t know what triggered the leak.
A steward’s inquiry resulted in Martin Chuan being banned for his participation aboard Valerie Blue. He finished last in the 10-horse event.
According to another jockey who took part in the race, Chuan entered a location with no room. According to Equibase’s race recap, Territoriality “clipped an outer rival’s hind heels and fell” before leaving the 5/16 pole. She went free toward the finish line before being grabbed by an outrider.
According to the recap, Vostra “struck a fallen foe” and lost Giles around the 5/16 pole. An outrider also captured the filly before leading it back to the receiving barn.
Martin Garcia, who rode Fasta Lavista Baby to victory, told The Courier Journal that he was relieved his filly was able to vault around the event, which occurred right in front of him.
Dr. Will Farmer, Churchill’s equine medical director, informed The Courier Journal that Territoriality and Vostra were not hurt in the spill.
