Hastings riders get suspensions for hostilities

Jockeys Cayetano Chaparro and Dave Wilson received suspensions for an altercation that occurred during the running of the sixth race at Hastings last Friday.

The incident began when Chaparro, aboard Hey Mikey, elbowed Wilson, who was riding Some Devil You Are, just past the seven-sixteenths pole. Wilson responded by forcing Chaparro into the rail on the stretch turn. Following the race, Wilson also instigated a physical altercation with Chaparro in the jockeys' quarters.

According to Keith Smith, senior steward at Hastings, Chaparro caused the initial interference because Wilson had directed abusive language at Chaparro early in the race.

Wilson and Chaparro were give the option of either serving a three-day suspension or accepting a two-day suspension and paying a $500 fine. Wilson opted to pay the fine, while Chaparro decided to serve three days.

Entering this weekend's racing, Wilson was second in the rider standings with 23 wins and Chaparro was tied for 12th with five wins.

"Both riders were very unprofessional during the running of the race," said Smith. "This is the most severe fine we've given in the last few years."

Smith also said the short racing schedule at Hastings was considered when handing out the suspensions. He also added that both riders were very apologetic about their behavior.