Last weekend, Junior Alvarado rode Sovereignty to victory at the illustrious Kentucky Derby. Yet, at the same time, he was penalized for over-whipping during the race. Alvarado has already been fined $62,000 by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). This fine represents just 20% of his winnings from the famed affair. He was handed a two-game, paid suspension. Due to this unfortunate circumstance, he will not be able to ride during the Preakness Stakes as Sovereignty will no longer race in the following contest.
On Derby Day, Alvarado loaded up and beat Sovereignty eight times with the whip. This action went beyond the HISA regulation threshold of six strikes. Since this was determined to be Alvarado’s second offense in the past 180 days, his fine was automatically doubled. HISA found that Ms. Alvarado violated clear, pre-existing rules on whip usage. They claimed that he overused the whip “more than the allowed level.”
At 38 years old, Alvarado has established a tremendous reputation over his decade long career in the racing community. Of course his dazzling rides on Sovereignty have really made him stand out. The jockey skillfully maneuvered his horse past heavy favorite Journalism down the final stretch of the race, leading to a thrilling victory that captivated fans and spectators alike.
For all his recent accomplishment, no one can forget Alvarado’s penalties, which highlight the harsh reality of the rules that regulate jockey behavior. The fine and suspension show HISA’s commitment to realizing equitable practices. They want to know that horses who compete on their behalf in the sport of kings are well cared for.
Because of his suspension, Alvarado will have to sit out two race days. That means he will not be on track May 29 and May 30. This decision means he will miss opportunities to compete in upcoming races and further solidify his standing in the sport, particularly as he was poised to ride in the Preakness Stakes.