Stewards exonerate Gomez
 

Garrett Gomez, the nation's leading rider in purse earnings this year with more than $12 million, was exonerated Monday by Del Mar's stewards for his actions aboard Eissoai following Sunday's third race, in which Gomez hit the filly on the left side near her mouth about 100 yards after the finish.

Gomez met with Del Mar's stewards in their ground-floor office for 20 minutes a little less than two hours before Monday's first race. The decision - no fine, no suspension - was announced, though there could be a possible penalty.
http://www.drf.com/news/article/96790.html

I saw the incident after the wire, Eissoai was really tough to ride. I don't think it was comparable to what Rose did, however Gomez was no doubt fustrated and let out some steam. He should have been fined in my opinion, I would have to believe the stewards let him know he is on watch now.

In one of the stories Gomez said he was physically spent after the ride, and did the best he could to do what he felt was necessary to prevent danger after crossing the wire.

Watching the calracing.com race replays it's a very believable story. She ran with her head cocked about 45 degrees to her body for at least 50% of the race. Looked like she wanted to go into the rail at least twice by my observation.

Either Gomez, or Eissoai, did a heckuva job simply staying up after clipping heels in the stretch.


I didn't see the gallop out, but no doubt that safely controlling her was extremely in question.

This is a very good account of what happened, from what I remember of Gomez he does not have a reputation as a hothead. The stewards perhaps rightfully gave him the benefit of the doubt. Still watching the gallop out after the wire there is no doubt he slapped her on the side of the head.