Tampa Bay: Gallardo among four riders involved in multi-horse spill

OLDSMAR, Fla. - Leading jockey Antonio Gallardo was one of four riders involved in a multiple-horse spill during the running of Friday’s sixth race at Tampa Bay Downs.

The field was approaching the top of the stretch in the 5 1/2-furlong claiming sprint when La Ranchera, who had pressed the early pace under Alice Cartwright, broke down and fell heavily near the inner rail. Juliebrowneyes and Huber Villa-Gomez were following La Ranchera and fell over that rival while Carol Ann, with Gallardo aboard, stumbled badly attempting to avoid the fallen rivals, unseating her rider. Then Bright Promise, with Janelle Campbell in the irons, struck the fallen La Ranchera, also unseating her rider.

All four jockeys were transported by ambulance to St. Joseph Hospital but initial reports indicated all were conscious and had movement in their extremities. Villa-Gomez and Gallardo were reported to be in good condition. Cartwright and Campbell were being treated and awaiting results of their X-rays.

La Ranchera died on the track. The other three runners were taken back to their respective barns.

At the time of the spill, Gallardo had 67 winners, 29 more than Daniel Centeno.