Jockeys Saez, Doyle injured in spill

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Jockeys Sebastian Saez and Sophie Doyle escaped serious injuries in a fifth race spill at Churchill Downs on Thursday that left Saez with a broken collarbone and Doyle with bruising and soreness, their agents said.

Initially, many feared their injuries might be more significant, with both riders lying on the main track while being evaluated by ontrack medical staff for more than five minutes after the race. At the time of this initial evaluation, Saez had neck pain and concussion-like symptoms and Doyle had discomfort in her forearms and legs, said Churchill Downs publicity director Darren Rogers, who spoke to the first-responding medical personnel. The riders were then transported to Norton Audubon Hospital.

Saez was unseated when his mount, Magnum Force, appeared to clip heels while making a bold move in early stretch, and Doyle, aboard Gladhander, then fell to the main track in a chain reaction when her mount was unable to avoid the fallen Magnum Force.

Both horses galloped away immediately following the incident, which came in a race for $5,000 claiming horses. There was a stewards’ inquiry, but no change was made to the order of finish. The race was won by Fryers Well.