No boots - no rules broken

Racingpost.com




FORMER champion Seb Sanders claimed what was said to be a first in modern British racing history on Tuesday by riding without boots in a race at Goodwood.

Sanders rode the Roger Teal-trained Langley Vale without boots to finish fourth in the 6f handicap, breaking no rules in doing so.

The front-runner, sent off the 16-1 outsider of the nine-runner field, faded to finish fourth under Sanders, having his only mount of the day off 9st 5lb and riding with his breeches covering the lower part of his legs.

It is understood Sanders went to weigh out without boots, and after the rule book was consulted it was determined he was within his rights to do so.

Trainer Teal was understandably surprised at what transpired and said: "It's a strange one, I've read about it in books but never seen it before."

'No rules broken'

BHA spokesman Robin Mounsey said: "No rules have been broken. Jockeys are required to wear certain safety equipment, including body protectors and helmets, but this doesn't extend to footwear.

"Our rules are reviewed annually and we'd never rule out taking a look at any of our rules or penalties, however it should be noted we've never had an instance such as this occur before."

Sanders, 43, shared the jockeys' title with Jamie Spencer in 2007, partnering 213 winners that calendar year, and has ridden more than 100 winners in nine other years. However, he has had only 12 in 2015

Well done Seb, no worries about having to hang up them smelly boots when you're done riding the day's work. :lol:

And time to start booting home the winners right and left!!!

mikesack wrote: Well done Seb, no worries about having to hang up them smelly boots when you're done riding the day's work. :lol:

And time to start booting home the winners right and left!!!

May need boots for that ?? !!