Mountain Park Jockey Faces Fine After Accusations of Hitting Horse in the Face

Jockey Jose A. Leon is the center of a recent controversy in the equestrian world. After getting caught striking his horse in the face, he got off easy.

To the discomfort of many, the authorities fined him a mere $100 for the violation. This slap in the wrist has caused a major furor in the equestrian community.

Unveiling the Issue

The incident happened at Mountaineer Park in West Virginia. The Mountaineer Stewards put out a statement stating “Mr. Leon was caught striking a horse across the face on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023, during morning exercising.”

The Stewards ended up fining Leon a whopping $100 for the violation.

The ruling did not specify whether Leon used his whip or his hand for this action. When Thoroughbred Daily attempted to reach out to the West Virginia Racing Commission, they didn’t get much headway.

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Joe Moore, the Executive director ended up writing in an email that he did not have any additional information beyond what the Mountaineer stewards put out in the statement.

Understandably, fans and enthusiasts are furious at the ruling. While some are happy that at least something was done to punish this, incident, many aren’t satisfied with the severity. For them, $100 seems to be a mere slap in the wrist for this “inhumane” behavior.

Humanitarian Aspects and Ramifications

One fan even remarked, “I’ll pay $100 to hit him in the face!” This is just scratching the surface of the outrage against the punishment. There has also been outrage to ensure the horses are treated properly.

Horses are powerful and sensitive creatures that form a vital part of the racing industry. Naturally, their welfare should be a matter of utmost importance.

Some argue that Leon’s $100 fine is inadequate and are calling for a lifetime ban. Others emphasize the importance of addressing the issue at its root. It is essential to ensure that equine athletes are treated with the respect and care they deserve.

Many believe that harsher penalties are necessary not only to serve justice but also to send a clear message that the mistreatment of horses will not be tolerated in the world of horse racing.

What do you think of such a behavior with a horse? Do you think the penalty is justified? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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