By Bill Finley
Embattled jockey Patrick Valenzuela, 53, has been denied a jockey's license by the CHRB, but was told he may reapply for reinstatement in one year. In a press release issued Wednesday, the CHRB advised Valenzuela to go out of his way to prove that he has been clean and sober when reapplying for a license next year.
The statement read: ” In order to re-apply for a jockey's license, in addition to regular testing, Valenzuela is advised in the Board's decision to continue working with the Winner's Foundation, an organization that assists racing industry employees with problems of alcohol and substance abuse. At the time he re-applies, the Board will consider “the testimony of a representative of the Winner's Foundation as to the extent of Appellant's participation and involvement with the Winner's Foundation.”
Explaining his decision to deny Valenzuela' application for a license, Hearing Officer Patrick Kane said: “This Officer cannot ignore the number of chances the CHRB previously gave Appellant. It should be noted that since 2000, Appellant has what this Officer considers fifteen major rule violations and/or convictions. As such, a six-month record free of violations fails to demonstrate adequate rehabilitation in light of Appellant's numerous past transgressions. Accordingly, and based upon the evidence submitted, this Officer hereby finds that Appellant did not demonstrate a record of rehabilitation justifying his licensure as a jockey in the State of California. However, this Officer is encouraged by Appellants' six-month record that is free of violations. Appellant is encouraged to re-apply for a license in the future if he continues to maintain a clean record and attends meetings regularly to assist with any substance abuse issues.”
Valenzuela is licensed in California as an exercise rider.
When reached by the TDN Wednesday, Valenzuela said that on the advice of his attorney he would have no comment on the matter.
Valenzuela's latest troubles began when he failed to appear to accept mounts on consecutive days at Santa Anita in March. 2014. He was immediately suspended by the Santa Anita stewards and an initial request to be reinstated was turned down in July 2015.
Shortly thereafter, Valenzuela was granted a license by the Louisiana Racing Commission and returned to action at Delta Downs Nov. 21. He moved from there to the Fair Grounds where he won 18 races from 197 mounts. He was also licensed in Texas and won his only stakes race of 2016 when guiding A M Milky Way (Elusive Bluff) to a victory in the Spirt of Texas S. at Sam Houston.
Valenzuela has not ridden since February and has told reporters his absence was due to a hand injury.
Presumably, Valenzuela could go back to riding in Texas and/or Louisiana, but declined to answer any questions about his immediate plans.
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