Harkie, Gomez penalized for whip violations

ELMONT, N.Y. - New York jockeys Heman Harkie and Jose Gomez were each fined $250 and suspended one racing day for whip violations under the new regulations that went into effect last weekend with the implementation of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, according to New York Racing Association spokesman Pat McKenna.

Harkie was sanctioned for hitting his horse, On the Hill, more than six times in Sunday’s sixth race at Belmont Park. Harkie finished second in the race.

Gomez, one of the top apprentice riders in the country, was sanctioned for raising his whip above his head to strike his horse Fazaro, who finished second in Monday’s third race.

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Neither rider appealed the penalties. Both will miss Thursday’s opening-day card at Saratoga.