by Steve Bailey

Jockey John Velazquez was taken to the University of Kentucky hospital in Lexington after a two-horse spill in the seventh race on Friday at Keeneland Race Course.

Velazquez’s mount, Tap Dancing, fell over Whacka Whacka, ridden by Jamie Theriot, who clipped heels with Rapid Mon in early stretch of the 6 1/2-furlong maiden special weight race.

The riders lay on the track for several minutes before they were taken by ambulance to the first-aid room.

Theriot was up and walking but said he was fine, although very sore.

Theriot said Velazquez was awake and alert but pretty banged up.

“Other than that I don’t know how he is,” Theriot said.

Neither horse was seriously injured, according to track veterinarians.

Steve Bailey is deputy news editor of Thoroughbred Times