Ness One Win Shy of 2,000
Trainer Jamie Ness is one winner shy of 2,000 after sending out one winner on today’s nine race card.
Jevian Toledo came from far back aboard Siegfried to win the second race, notching number 1,999 for Ness.
Last year Ness led all North American conditioners with 395 victories, including 83 at Laurel and Pimlico. This year he is battling Hugh McMahon for top training honors during Laurel Park’s fall meeting.
Bluegrass Chat Sets New Course Record
Alex Cintron sent Bluegrass Chat straight to the lead in today’s fifth race and 1-1/16th miles later, they crossed the finish line in 1:40.47, setting a new record over the Dahlia turf course.
Trained by Juan Vazquez, Bluegrass Chat was never threatened as he led throughout. Vazquez claimed the son of Bluegrass Cat for $15,000 two starts back at Delaware Park. Now three for seven over the turf, Bluegrass Chat paid $7.80.
Evans Involved in First Race Spill
Apprentice jockey Cecily Evans was tossed from her mount when her horse buckled and fell just after relinquishing the lead a 1/16th of a mile from the finish line in today’s first race.
Evans was sent face first into the ground and remained motionless, with her face in the dirt, while her mount, Kobuk Valley, got to her feet and ran off.
“Possible concussion, neck injury,” said Dr. Harry Harris, who attended the rider on the racetrack before she was placed on a stretcher and loaded into an ambulance. “She’s going to the hospital now.”
Evans was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Unit in Baltimore. As of 4:30 p.m., Evan’s agent Joe Pagiei had not received further word on her condition.
The seven pound apprentice has ridden four winners at Laurel during the autumn meeting.