Lumpkins gets three-day ban

SAN MATEO, Calif. - Jockey Jason Lumpkins, who is in a tough battle with perennial champion Russell Baze for the Bay Meadows riding title, was handed a three-day suspension for rough riding by the stewards Monday. His agent said he will appeal.

Lumpkins was cited for his ride aboard Autographed Copy in the first race Sunday. The stewards ruled he failed to make a proper effort to prevent his horse from racing wide entering the stretch, causing another horse, Waki Jeannie, to lose ground. There was no inquiry, because Waki Jeannie finished second, in front of third-place Autographed Copy.

Dennis Patterson, Lumpkins's agent, said he would have appealed even if Lumpkins were not fighting for the riding title.

"I think we have a pretty strong case," he said. "They said he didn't make a proper effort to keep her in, but the filly was trying to get out all the way and he uncocked the stick and hit her right-handed on the backside trying to keep her in." The stewards declined to comment because of the appeal.

In order to continue riding, Lumpkins must receive a stay. His agent will ask Robert Tourtelot, chairman of the California Horse Racing Board, for a stay, pending a hearing. If the stay is denied, he will have the option of getting a stay from the State Supreme Court.

Going into Monday's races, Lumpkins had a 58-57 lead over Baze. Including Monday, there were 16 days remaining in the meeting.

Hollendorfer entry favored

The Jerry Hollendorfer-trained entry of Thatswhatshesaid and Excessful looks tough to beat in the $32,000 allowance feature for fillies and mares at a mile Wednesday.

Thatswhatshesaid has won her last two starts, one in a $25,000 claiming race and the other in a $12,500 starter. Excessful is coming off a victory in a straight maiden race at a mile on the turf.