Kentucky Derby jockey Alvarado overused crop, faces suspension

Jockey Junior Alvarado was fined $62,000 and suspended for two days for excessive riding crop use during his Kentucky Derby win. Alvarado struck his horse, Sovereignty, eight times, exceeding the six-strike limit set by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. The fine was doubled due to a prior violation, and the suspension will occur at the end of May. The fine money will support a jockey mental health program. Sovereignty's owner announced the horse will not run in the Preakness Stakes, but may compete in the Belmont Stakes.