Pedroza Breaks Leg in Starting Gate Mishap

Image: 
Description: 

Jockey Martin Pedroza sustained leg fracture and is to be sidelined for an indefinite period after a starting gate mishap aboard first-time starter Sargentina in the eighth and final race Feb. 7 at Santa Anita Park.



The 48-year-old jockey's injury was "low by the shin," according to his agent, Richie Silverstein. "Doctors said it was a straight break; he was lucky."



A cast is expected to be placed on the leg "in three or four days," Silverstein said.



Sargentina refused to break and stayed in the gate as the rest of the field took off in the $20,000 maiden claiming event at 5 1/2 furlongs.



Through 28 racing days, Pedroza had six wins, four seconds and nine thirds from 58 rides. He was scheduled to ride 3-1 morning line second choice Blueskiesnrainbows in the Feb. 8 San Antonio Stakes (gr. II), his only mount on the card.