Investigation launched after jockey publicly calls out rival’s controversial ride that leaves punters in disbelief
THE US jockey whose ride at Belterra Park left punters in disbelief has drawn the wrath of both fellow jockeys and the stewards.
Gregory Romero looked home and hosed on 9-1 shot Scooteranddabigman in the fourth race on Wednesday.
Romero eased up prematurely, however, which allowed 6-5 favourite Hillbilly Logic to storm down the outside and win in the final stride.
It was a puzzling watch, with Romero twice looking behind him at the fast-finishing rival.
Despite this, Romero never took assertive action and fellow weighing room colleague Chantal Sutherland lost for words.
She posted on Twitter: “What is happening here @Belterra, ummm calling Stewards….”
Three-time Grade 1-winning Sutherland is certainly qualified to call out Romero’s ride.
She’s best known for her partnership with Game On Dude, who she won those three Group 1s.
Sutherland, who is also a model, has won more than £40million in her career and is one of the most popular jockeys globally.
The Equibase in-running comment for Scooteranddabigman reads: “Had a rail trip chasing pace to stretch, angled out to the lead.
“Stayed on in the late going but nailed on the wire with mild perseverance in the final four strides.”
Romero has been riding since 2016, winning on 32 of his 297 rides. In 2023, he’s ridden three winners from 29.
The Belterra stewards are yet to reach a verdict on his punishment but punters were unanimous in their view.
One posted: “Revoke his license for 5 years – nationwide. Ban him from all tracks.”
Another said: ” He looks right at the other jockey, he was not surprised by him passing.”
While one more said: “Wow! That is about as bad as it gets. Not quite pulling up, but not encouraging your ride to finish is minor league stuff.”
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