Fairmount jockey suspended 60 days for lack of effort

The stewards’ investigation into the July 23 race at Fairmount Park in which 70-year-old jockey R.A. “Cowboy” Jones rode the runner-up found no conspiracy among jockeys or trainers, although jockey John Lejeune has been suspended 60 days for an apparent lack of effort when finishing third in the subject race.

State steward Jim Lages said Wednesday from the southern Illinois track that Lejeune, who rode Magnificent Mandy, will be the only person penalized for his role in a race won by 1 3/4 lengths by Ola D., ridden by Uriel Lopez. A formal ruling was issued Wednesday with approval from the Illinois Racing Board.

Jones rode the even-money favorite, My Kentucky Breeze, while Lopez won without urging his mount whatsoever. Jones was attempting to become the first jockey in American racing history known to win races in seven different decades.

Lages said Lopez was questioned at length about the matter and was absolved of wrongdoing.