Apprentice jockey Nicolas suspended

Apprentice jockey Gonzalo Nicolas has been suspended three days for causing interference in the fourth race Feb. 1.

Nicolas, 24, was cited for his ride on Master Master, who finished sixth in a maiden claimer at six furlongs after setting the early pace. Master Master bumped with the eventual fifth-place finisher Warren’s Sunny Boy in the stretch.

The suspension begins Feb. 16 and covers three racing days through Feb. 20. Nicolas claims seven pounds. Through Thursday, he has one win from 40 mounts at the current meeting.

** Assistant starter Roger Pyfer has been suspended until November 2016 after being charged with driving under the influence and misdemeanor spousal abuse, according to a ruling published by Santa Anita stewards Jan. 31.

Pyfer, 54, is suspended for the term of his license and must participate in a fitness-for-license hearing before any possible reinstatement, according to the one-paragraph ruling.