Jockeys Nakatani, Franco taken to hospital after spill

DEL MAR, Calif. – Jockeys Corey Nakatani and Geovanni Franco were taken to a local hospital after they were involved in a two-horse spill in early stretch of Saturday’s 10th race at Del Mar.

Both riders were taken to Scripps Memorial Hospital in nearby La Jolla for further evaluation about 40 minutes after the incident. Track chief executive officer Joe Harper was told by paramedics that the riders were moving their arms and legs.

Irish Spring, ridden by Nakatani, appeared to clip heels with Aussie Fox who drifted to the inside into Irish Spring's path. Irish Spring fell heavily, unseating Nakatani. Bitter Ring Home, ridden by Franco, was unable to avoid Irish Spring and fell, unseating the rider.

Immediately after the spill, Franco rose briefly and then quickly sat down. Nakatani crawled on his arms and legs to a position under the rail where he received medical attention.

Both riders were placed on support boards and taken from the track on stretchers. Franco was fitted with a neck brace as a precaution.

Irish Spring died as a result of injuries sustained in the fall, according to track officials. Bitter Ring Home ran loose and was caught by an outrider.

Aussie Fox, who finished third under apprentice jockey Assael Espinoza, was disqualified and placed 10th, the last of the finishers in the 12-horse race.

-additional reporting by Jay Privman