Democratic Sentinel, Volume 13, Number 41, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 1 November 1889 — A Warning to Jockeys. [ARTICLE]

A Warning to Jockeys.

It is reported that August Belmont has discharged his best jockey because he did not ride his horse to win at a recent race. He was satisfied that the jockey was interested in making the horse lose the race, and Belmont determined to make an example of him, although it might be difficult to supply his place. This shows a deplorable condition of things on the rafce track, and gives additional uncertainty to a sport that has enough of the element of chance already. The only remedy we can suggest is to do away with jockeys altogether, and let the owners of racing stock ride their own horses in a race. They must “back” them literally as well as financially. Belmont is a little old and a little stout to mount a racer, but the pluck that enabled him to discharge his best jockey in the interest of an honest administration in the government of the race course, may inspire him to do it. What an attraction it would be for the next race in which the millionaire’s Raceland figures, to announce that he would be mounted by the August Belmont himself. Half the town would go to see it. —Texas Siftings.