From a Maryland Jockey Club release
Apprentice rider Eli Rosa returned to the winners’ circle for the first time in nearly a year when he guided Son of the Sun ($12.60) to a score in Saturday’s third race. The 24-year-old, who finished 10th in the 2013 Laurel Park winter standings, broke his left arm and dislocated his left wrist in a spill at Charles Town March 23, 2013.
“To be honest, I almost cried when we crossed the wire,” Rosa said. “I feel very happy. It was a very tough year. There were complications after the surgery and I got tendinitis. Then I had my appendix taken out. There were all kinds of problems, but here I am. With all the tough times you have to keep fighting.”
Son of the Sun was Rosa’s fourth mount back. He returned to the track in January and has been galloping horses for Linda Gaudet, Lacey Gaudet, John Rigattieri and Claudio Gonzalez. Gonzalez trains Son of the Sun.
FOUR VYING FOR TRAINING TITLE
With two weeks remaining in the winter meeting, four trainers have a chance to win the Laurel Park title.
Juan Vazquez completed a four-win week with a victory in Cotton One in the finale. He leads the standings with 17 winners, two more than Kieron Magee.
Hugh McMahon and Claudio Gonzalez have saddled 14 winners. Mike Trombetta (12) is also within striking distance.
