What do Planes and Jockeys have in common?
 

BIRD STRIKES!


Sunday Race 8 SAR

Jockey Sebastian Morales got hit in the face by a bird on the first turn but still managed to guide 32-1 shot Freddy the Cap to a victory in Sunday’s eighth race.

The unfortunate fowl struck Morales in the goggles and then bounced off jockey Julien Leparoux, riding A Zero Trap. Leparoux briefly looked back at the bird as it fell to the track.

“I didn’t see that bird,” said a laughing Morales, 23, who was uninjured. “It hurt a little bit because I looked up and the bird crossed me and he kept pinching my face … It’s funny, you know.”

Morales briefly adjusted his goggles but kept his composure and won the nine-furlong race by a head over Groomedforvictory.

Morales said nothing like that had never happened to him.

Celebrity chef Bobby Flay, a horse owner, did the race call. Hopefully, the unlucky bird won’t end up somebody’s plate. Albany Times Union - Mark Singelais

From the Sunday Play Along Thread in the Selections Room:

Just watched the replay. Unbelievable he didn't go down as the bird certainly did. Happens just after they get around the first turn.

BTW Bobby Flay's call was horrible a...a...a....and gives you appreciation of the tough job Durkin and like have. Wonder if he got a free club samich and cocktail at Siro's Sunday night?