Francis Diamario, longtime starter at Charles Town Races, has been fined $1,000 by stewards for opening the gates prematurely in the seventh race at the West Virginia track on Nov. 5.
Medallion of Ash and jockey J.D. Acosta were left behind when the race began, standing behind the starting gate before loading in the outside stall for the 6 1/2-furlong allowance race for West Virginia-bred fillies and mares that had a field of nine.
“Last one to load, Medallion of Ash,” track announcer Paul Espinosa Jr. said. A few seconds later, the gates opened. “And they’re off," said Espinosa, "and Medallion of Ash left behind the gate."
The race was run without incident, but stewards declared Medallion of Ash a non-starter, prompting a refund of all wagers on her, with the exception of the daily double and pick 3 ending in the seventh race. Those had consolation payoffs.
Stewards cited violation of Rule 178-1-45.7.a.1, which reads: “The starter is responsible for assuring that each participant receives a fair start.”
Diamario waived his right to a hearing.
