The Illinois Racing Commission is investigating a thoroughbred race last week for possible race-fixing at Fairmount Park where 70 year old jockey 'Cowboy' Jones was attempting to set a record for winning a race in each of seven decades. The commission is wondering if the jockeys were trying to keep Jones' horse in the lead, undoubtedly so he could win the race and set the record. In the end, Jones' horse finished second in the race but the questions persist.
If these allegations are true, I suspect Jones had nothing to do with it, nor was any possible collusion between the jockeys motivated by greed, but more likely motivated by 'good' intentions, to let Jones set the record he was aiming for.
Whatever the motive, if proven there was wrongdoing by any of the jockeys, severe punishment should be handed down. For while the motive may have not been financial gain, the public was wagering on the race and they have the right to expect a race where everyone is competing to their fullest.
So what does this have to do with harness racing?
Has there been a time when a driver or horse made a special appearance (not a competition-type event) at your local racetrack and won? Admit it, while the driver and/or horse may have been the best in the race, was there a brief moment where you said to yourself 'Hmmm'? Rest assured if you did, others did too.
When you are in the gaming business, integrity is your most precious asset and perception is reality. The last thing racing needs is a gambler considering "Are they are going to let John Doe win because it's 'John Doe Day'?" or even worse thinking that and having him come in first. Well every time there is such an event, you run the risk of this happening. Why even risk this?
By all means, have those special tribute days or events, but if there is to be a race, keep it off the wagering card.
