Hollywood Park: Valenzuela must talk with stewards

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Jockey Patrick Valenzuela must meet with Betfair Hollywood Park stewards Scott Chaney, Kim Sawyer, and Tom Ward this week before he can resume riding after a self-imposed break because of weight issues.

Valenzuela, 49, has not ridden since May 19. He took off his single mount on May 20, saying he was having difficulty making riding weight.

Valenzuela had hoped to return to riding on Thursday, but the comeback has been delayed until Sunday or June 7, pending a conversation with stewards. “We intend to hear what steps he’s taken to get his weight under control,” Chaney said on Monday.

Valenzuela, who has 1 win from 26 mounts at this meeting, said poor diet contributed to the problem. He said last week that his weight was lower after improved nutrition.