Jockeys scuffle at Breeders’ Cup

Horse racing: Jockeys Calvin Borel and Javier Castellano turned the winner’s circle at Churchill Downs into an impromptu boxing ring, trading punches moments after the opening race of the Breeders’ Cup on Friday afternoon.

Borel charged Castellano shortly after the $500,000 Breeders’ Cup Marathon, angry over a dangerous midrace move that endangered Borel and fellow rider Martin Garcia. Prince Will I Am, ridden by Castellano, later was disqualified in the race won by Eldaafer.

The two jockeys were near the weigh-in station next to the winner’s circle when things grew heated.

The 43-year-old Borel pointed a finger at the 33-year-old Castellano. The 5-foot-1, 110-pound Castellano then took a swing at Borel, 4 inches taller than his rival. Security officials struggled to separate the two, holding an enraged Borel, who urged them to let him go back at Castellano.

In an interview with ESPN as he rode out for the Juvenile Fillies race, Borel said he and Castellano had patched things up.

Associated Press

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