Saez picks up winning thread after suspension

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – Leading jockey Luis Saez, who served a three-day riding suspension last week, wasted little time picking right up where he left off upon returning to the saddle over the weekend. Saez registered a four-bagger Sunday that included a last-to-first triumph aboard Lalibela, a 3-year-old son of Giant’s Causeway trained by Michael Matz, who paid $65 after capturing his career debut in impressive fashion on the turf.

Saez, with 112 victories, maintains a comfortable advantage atop the standings in his quest for a second straight Gulfstream Park championship meet riding title. The battle right now is for second place, with Irad Ortiz Jr. holding a slim 77-75 advantage over Tyler Gaffalione heading into Wednesday’s card.