Cristian Torres appeals suspension for whip violations in Oaks, Derby

Jockey Cristian Torres has appealed a five-day suspension levied by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority for whip violations while riding in both the Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks last week at Churchill Downs in Louisville, according to documents posted by HISA on its website.

In the separate rulings, Torres was alleged to have struck Search Party, his mount in the Oaks, eight times, two above the limit of six. In the Derby, he was alleged to have struck Robusta seven times. Search Party finished 10th, and Robusta finished 14th.

The two violations were the second and third whip-use offenses by Torres in the last 180 days. Under HISA rules, multiple riding-crop violations in a six-month period lead to additional penalties.

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Although riders are generally restricted to six uses of the whip during a race, there are exceptions to maintain control of a horse that is behaving in a manner that puts riders and horses in danger.

Torres was also fined a total of $5,000 for the violations.

The suspension was slated to cover the racing dates of May 17, May 21, May 24-25, and May 28, all live racing dates at Churchill.

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