Racing Incident Report Reveals Interference, Injuries and Jockey Suspension
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A series of incidents marred recent racing events, resulting in veterinary concerns for multiple horses and a suspension for jockey Antoine Badel, according to an official report released today. The report details a complex series of events involving several horses and riders, highlighting the inherent risks within the sport.
Multiple Horses Affected by On-Track Contact
Several horses experienced difficulties during the race, with ALWAYS MY FOLKS (J345) exhibiting concerning signs following contact with JOYFUL TREASURE. Jockey K. Teetan reported that his mount “did not finish the race off in the Home Straight” after being crowded in the early stages. A subsequent veterinary examination revealed a “substantial amount of blood in the horse’s trachea,” necessitating further evaluation before it can return to competition.
JOYFUL TREASURE (J496) also sustained injuries, found to be lame in its left hind leg after the race. The horse became unbalanced when racing between BEAUTY FORMULA and ALWAYS MY FOLKS, resulting in contact. A veterinary examination will be required before the horse is cleared to race again.
Jockey Reprimanded for Shifting In, Causing Interference
Jockey H. Bentley faced a reprimand for actions involving SONIC BOOM (H144). According to the report, Bentley shifted SONIC BOOM in, causing interference with ALWAYS MY FOLKS and JOYFUL TREASURE. Bentley explained that he intentionally rode his mount forward to lead from an outside barrier, resulting in a more forward position than anticipated.
Careless Riding Leads to Suspension for Antoine Badel
Jockey Antoine Badel was suspended for careless riding following an incident involving LEGEND STAR (K271) and GLORY CLOUD (H320). Badel pleaded guilty to allowing GLORY CLOUD to shift in without sufficient clearance, forcing LEGEND STAR to be checked. The Stewards assessed the carelessness as grade 2, with consequences also graded at 2, and considered Badel’s prior record. As a result, Badel is suspended from racing from Wednesday, December 17, 2025, through Sunday, December 21, 2025.
Additional Incidents and Veterinary Checks
Other horses experienced minor issues during the race. INNO CENTURY (K113) jumped awkwardly and lost ground, while BRILLIANT FIRE (J441) was briefly held up making the Home Turn and made contact with EVER SMART (J179) near the 50-meter mark due to shifting ground. GLORIOUS EXPERT (J028) was bumped at the start and later bumped by JOYFUL TREASURE. EVER SMART also made contact with GLORIOUS EXPERT on jumping, losing ground.
Veterinary inspections following the race did not reveal significant findings for BEAUTY FORMULA (K066) or BRILLIANT FIRE (J441). However, GLORY CLOUD, LEGEND STAR, and GLORIOUS EXPERT were sent for post-race sampling.
These incidents underscore the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of horse racing, where split-second decisions and unforeseen circumstances can significantly impact both equine athletes and their riders.
