An inquiry has been opened into a race at Fort Erie in Canada after jockey Kirk Johnson surrendered a commanding lead and was beaten. The ride on Princess O Denmark in the five-furlong maiden claiming race has sparked widespread criticism after video replays were shared online.
The filly turned for home with a clear advantage, but Johnson appeared to make little effort to maintain the momentum, glancing behind him three times. When he finally urged the runner, it was too late, as Rolling Roxx swept past to score by three-quarters of a length.
Track commentator Drew McPherson described the contest as "very perplexing", saying the leader was not being asked as the field approached the wire. Social media reaction was fierce, with Fox Sports presenter Chris 'The Bear' Fallica declaring the jockey should never ride again, while others alleged the race had been "fixed".
Johnson, an experienced rider with nearly 1,000 winners, has received support from some quarters. Former announcer and trainer David Ezra told Fort Erie Radio there was "no nefarious activity", explaining that Princess O Denmark was a horse that did not respond to the whip.
The senior stewards' report confirmed a notice of review had been issued to Johnson regarding his ride in the stretch, specifically noting that the horse "was passed very late for the win".
