HISA suspends Torres for Oaks, Derby crop violations

Cristian Torres was fined a combined $5,000 and suspended for five Kentucky race days by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority after exceeding crop-use limits aboard Search Party in the Kentucky Oaks and Robusta in the Kentucky Derby.

For his ride on Search Party, who finished 10th in the Oaks, Torres was fined $2,000 and suspended for two race days, May 17 and May 21. Stewards reported he struck the filly eight times, twice over the six-strike maximum, and the infraction marked his second crop violation within a 180-day window.

His mount on Robusta, who finished 14th in the Derby, drew a $3,000 fine and a three-day suspension covering May 24, May 25 and May 28. According to the May 9 ruling from the Kentucky stewards, Torres struck Robusta seven times — one over the limit — counting as his third offense in the rolling 180-day window. Torres waived his right to a hearing before the Board of Stewards in the Derby case.

HISA's crop regulations call for a $250 fine, or 10% of the jockey's portion of the purse earnings, whichever is greater, plus a one-day suspension for one to three strikes over the limit. Penalties escalate for repeat offenses inside the 180-day window, which accounted for the heavier sanctions levied against Torres.

The 28-year-old's first violation in the current cycle came March 27 aboard Texas Sequoia in the 12th race at Oaklawn. Torres has appealed the Derby ruling and requested a stay of the suspension; HISA's rulings portal lists the status as "On Appeal Stay Requested." He has also appealed the Oaks decision.