Woodbine: Chernetz appeals three-day suspension

ETOBICOKE, Ontario – Apprentice jockey Skye Chernetz has appealed a three-day suspension imposed by the stewards for her ride aboard On Rainbow Bridge, who finished first here in last Wednesday night’s $200,000 Muskoka Stakes but was disqualified and placed second.

The stewards penalized Chernetz for “failing to keep a straight course, going out with her mount On Rainbow Bridge, and causing interference on Lexie Lou.”

On Rainbow Bridge, the 6-5 favorite, had hit the finish line a nose in front of Lexie Lou, who was awarded the victory at odds of 17-1.

Dave Cotey, who trains On Rainbow Bridge, has lodged an appeal to the head office of the Ontario Racing Commission on behalf of owner Kurt Cobza.

Chernetz also has been fined $400 for violating ORC whip rules here in last Sunday’s Grade 2 Play the King Stakes, where she finished third aboard Riding the River, beaten a half-length for second money.

The ruling cites Chernetz for “striking her mount Riding the River in an excessive manner, by unreasonable quantity during the stretch run.”

Riding the River also is trained by Cotey, who owns the 6-year-old gelding in partnership with Hugh Galbraith and Jim McNair.