Five jockeys penalized for whip-use violations Saturday races

ARCADIA, Calif. – The lucrative Santa Anita Handicap program on Saturday was an expensive day for several jockeys who were fined for whip violations.

Victor Espinoza, who rode Express Train to a win in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Handicap, and Ricky Gonzalez, who rode Leggs Galore to a victory in the Grade 2 Buena Vista Stakes, were each fined $1,500 for using the whip more than six times in their respective races.

English jockey Jamie Spencer was suspended five days for using the whip excessively on Space Traveller, who finished second in the Grade 1 Frank Kilroe Mile on turf. Spencer traveled from England to ride Space Traveller, who led in the final strides before being caught by Count Again. The suspension covers racing days on March 13, 18-20 and March 25.

Edwin Maldonado was suspended three days – March 13, and 18-19 – for using his whip in an overhanded position on See Through It in Saturday’s first race. See Through It finished fifth.

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Brice Blanc was fined $500 for using his whip more than six times on Lil Bro Coop, who finished third in Saturday’s seventh race.

Apprentice jockey Ricardo Ramirez was suspended three days – March 13 and 18-19 – for causing interference in the third race on Mylittlerunaway, who finished third and was placed seventh.