Decision in Herecomesthebride disqualification appeal expected soon

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – An arbitrator’s decision is due in the coming days following a Gulfstream stewards’ hearing held Thursday via Zoom into the controversial disqualification of Spanish Loveaffair in the Feb. 27 Herecomesthebride Stakes.

Spanish Loveaffair was disqualified from first to fourth for allegedly interfering with I Get It leaving the backstretch in the Grade 3 turf race. Casse said retired Hall of Fame jockey Jerry Bailey was among those testifying that he believed it was the wrong call.

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Spanish Loveaffair, a 3-year-old Karakontie filly, is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbreds, Michael Hernon, and Gary Barber. The decision of the arbitrator, former steward and racing official Jeff Noe, will be final, given that Casse said he and the owners will not pursue further legal action.