Bejarano is suspended for careless riding at Saratoga

Rafael Bejarano was suspended for 3 days by Saratoga stewards for careless racing in the Grade 1 Alabama on Saturday.

The suspension, reported earlier by Thoroughbred Daily News, is for Saturday, Sunday and next Wednesday, according to the New York State Gaming Commission.

Bejarano, who usually rides at Ellis Park, was aboard Taxed for his only mount of the day. According to the Equibase chart, Taxed stumbled at the start and then impeded Gambling Girl about 70 yards into the race. The two clipped heels, with Gambling Girl, ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., bobbling heavily.

Ortiz claimed interference, and after a stewards' inquiry, Taxed was disqualified from fifth to sixth place, putting Gambling Girl in fifth. Randomized led from gate to wire to win the Alabama by four lengths.

Bejarano waived his right to an appeal, according to the commission.

Bejarano is tied for second in jockey standings at Ellis Park, with 17 wins from 79 starts and earnings of $1.1 million.

He rode Taxed to a win in the Black-Eyed Susan (G2) and a second-place finish in the Indiana Oaks (G3).