Carmouche Fined, Suspended for Riding Crop Violation

Stewards in New York fined jockey Kendrick Carmouche $5,500 and suspended him one riding day for exceeding the limit for use of the riding crop in riding Deterministic  to victory in the June 8 Manhattan Stakes (G1T) at Saratoga Race Course. He struck Deterministic seven times on the colt's hindquarters, one more than the six-strike limit under Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority rules.

Deterministic led throughout in the 1 1/8-mile Manhattan, holding on for a head victory over Integration . The Miguel Clement trainee earned $550,000 in victory for owners St. Elias Stable, Ken Langone, Steven Duncker, and Vicarage Stable.

Carmouche's fine was higher than for most riding crop violations due to the $1 million purse. According to HISA rules, going 1-3 strikes over the limit results typically in a $250 fine or 10% of the jockey's portion of the purse, whichever is greater, plus a one-day suspension. Carmouche's winning-mount fee was $55,000 in the Manhattan.

The sanctions do not affect the official order of finish.

His suspension is to take place June 19. He told Daily Racing Form he would not appeal the decision, while expressing dissatisfaction with the rules, which were implemented under HISA in July 2022 in the interests of optics and horse welfare.

Striking a horse seven times is not considered abusive, but sanctions for violations help ensure fairness for those jockeys keeping within the six-strike limit.

Riding crops have cushioned ends and make popping noises intended to encourage a horse.