Valdivia Transported to Hospital After Spill

Jockey Jose Valdivia Jr. was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital for further evaluation Nov. 10, following an accident in the fourth race at Churchill Downs.

The 41-year-old rider complained of pain in his neck and lower left leg, but was conscious and had movement in all extremities, according to onsite medical personnel.

Valdivia was unseated from his mount, Millenial, when something went amiss with the 2-year-old colt as the field of 12 juveniles neared the far turn in the 1 1/16-mile grass race. Millenial fell when he severely injured his left front leg and was humanely euthanized, according to Dr. Bruce Howard, the chief veterinarian for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission.

American Sea, ridden by Ricardo Santana Jr., and Exit Laughing, with Shaun Bridgmohan up, were unable to avoid the fallen horse and rider, and also fell. Corey Lanerie also was unseated from his mount, Irish Proud, but the colt did not fall.

Bridgmohan, Lanerie, and Santana walked back to the jockeys' room and were examined by the track's doctor. Bridgmohan took off his remaining two mounts because of body soreness. Lanerie and Santana were cleared to ride and both scored victories in the fifth and sixth races, respectively.

Trainer Charlie LoPresti reported that American Sea appeared to be fine back at the barn. Kenny McCarthy, assistant to trainer Bill Mott, said Exit Laughing seemed "OK" but might be "a bit body sore."