Jockey Maldonado gets first win of comeback

Three weeks after returning from severe rib injuries sustained in early September, jockey Edwin Maldonado won Sunday’s second race for maiden claimers at Santa Anita, his first victory since August.

Maldonado fractured six ribs when he was unseated in a workout at Del Mar on Sept. 4. He was hospitalized for more than a week and underwent surgery to stabilize the ribs.

Maldonado returned to riding Dec. 26, opening day of the winter-spring meeting. His win aboard Pomp and Party ($3.40) in Sunday’s second race was his 12th mount of the comeback. The win was appreciated, Maldonado said.

“I took it for granted when I was fit and riding,” he said after leaving the winner’s circle.

“I’ve never been off for that long in 15 years. I’ve been working horses left and right. I’m back now, and I’m hungry.”
Maldonado, 34, has won three riding titles in California, most recently tying with Rafael Bejarano at the 2013 spring-summer meeting at Hollywood Park.