The connection between a horse and a jockey is paramount in the horse racing industry. This connection leads the horse to understand their human pal and listen to their commands in any major race, which is a crucial component. Unfortunately, for some jockeys, the chance to ride a good horse in a major race is dashed. This situation arises when these jockeys are substituted just before the big event. Something similar occurred not long ago with Kendrick Carmouche, who was taken off the horse Integration a few days ahead of the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational at Gulfstream Park.
Almost immediately after the jockey’s replacement, word spread like wildfire on social media. Kendrick Carmouche, as anybody would be, didn’t seem pleased with this move and also shared his opinion on the replacement. Even Carmouche’s devoted followers banded together to support the jockey at this difficult moment.
Kendrick Carmouche faces a thorn in his side after disheartening news befalls
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It is any jockey’s greatest desire to ride a good horse in a Grade 1 race. And it’s devastating to see that goal being dashed in an instant. Since Integration’s graded stakes debut in September, Kendrick Carmouche has been riding the horse. The horse also had a perfect record in the Hill Prince Stakes (Gr. 2), which Carmouche rode to victory in, as well as the New Kent County Virginia Derby (Gr. 3).
In his interview with Daily Racing Form, the rider detailed his “every day” grind toward his goal of becoming “the best jockey” possible. Kendrick Carmouche further added, saying, “I don’t see where they’re giving me a full opportunity.” He also mentioned other jockeys, like Irad Ortiz Jr., Jose Ortiz, Tyler Gaffalione, and Joel Rosario, saying, “I’m great, like those guys.” Carmouche just demands that he also wants to ride “good horses” just like the big jockeys out there and make his own mark in the horse racing scene. However, the disappointment wasn’t only for the jockey who got taken off, but also for the fans who were waiting for Carmouche to ride the horse.
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Fans in support of the jockey
In August, the horse won its maiden race at Colonial Downs under Tyler Gaffalione, who will be taking over the role of jockey of Integration at the upcoming Grade 1 stakes. However, this decision was also not welcomed by the horse racing community, as many took to Facebook’s comment section to express their ire and disapproval. One fan talked about the horse racing industry, saying, “Being a jockey is a brutal business.” Another fan supported the jockey’s statement, saying, “I’m glad to see Kendrick standing up for himself. He is right and he can ride with the best of them.”
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This fan wanted the jockey to keep faith ahead of the challenges, saying, “Keep pushing Kendrick your time will come!” With acknowledgement of Carmouche’s track record, this fan said, “Kendrick is a good jockey and has earned better treatment than this.” In spite of all the opinions, the horse’s trainer ultimately gets to choose the saddle. Longtime trainer of Integration, Claude McGaughey, must have a strategy in place for the horse in anticipation of the big race.
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