KINGSTON, Jamaica – After watching in dismay following the disqualification from first place by his first starter as a conditioner, Duke of Springs, Carlton ‘Jerry’ Cunningham says he will not be appealing the decision of the race day stewards.
Duke of Springs was disqualified on Saturday, May 13, 2023, and placed last after being deemed to have caused intimidation and for interfering with Devonte.
“It is something, I have to live with, it is something, I have already put behind me, and I have moved on to my next phase, which is saddling a winner, in fact saddling as many winners as possible. I have already had discussions with the owner, and we have both agreed that there will be no appeal,” Cunningham told Quickgallop.com.
Cunningham who officially graduated from the trainers’ course on Friday (May 12), further stated while he has accepted his faith, he could not hide his disappointment at the disqualification.
“I watched the race, and truth be told, I did not see anything wrong. While entering the winners’ enclosure, someone mentioned to me a problem was in the making. That was the first time a simmer of doubt entered my mind.
“The stewards have made their decision, so may it be. Yes, it was hard to take, but I am always looking forward. My task now as a new trainer is to continue what I have been doing, that is, providing for, and taking care of my horses. So, there is a lot to do, a lot to be accomplished, so dwelling in self-pity, is not a card in my deck,” Cunning said in closing.
