[geeker2]

PATRICK VALENZUELA MAKING PROGRESS ON COMEBACK TRAIL

Patrick Valenzuela, granted a license to exercise horses by the California Horse Racing Board in early August while his jockey’s license remains suspended, is making progress for a return to riding, subject to board approval which, if successful, could be in evidence for the Bing Crosby Meeting here when it commences on Thursday, October 29.

“I’m working hard and doing all I can to get my license back on October 17,” Valenzuela said Thursday morning. Valenzuela will turn 53 on October 17.

Valenzuela said he has been working 5-10 horses a morning for a variety of trainers, among them Mike Pender, Doug O’Neill, George Papaprodroumou and Ron McAnally. His weight is 128.

“I’ll be at 117 when I’m ready to ride again,” Valenzuela said. “I’m calling it the ‘Eye of the Tiger’ comeback.”