Rafael Bejarano getting closer to return

By: SPORTS NETWORK

 

Del Mar, CA (Sports Network) - Veteran jockey Rafael Bejarano is making steady progress toward a return to the racetrack following his racing accident during Del Mar's opening day.

Bejarano, who is hoping to ride during Del Mar's final week of the season, is expected to work horses on Saturday morning. He will be wearing a protective mask as he continues his recovery.

"He can't wait to get back to riding," Bejarano's agent Joe Ferrer said recently. "He's looking forward to his return."

Bejarano suffered serious facial fractures as a result of a terrible accident in the third race on Wednesday, July 22. Surgery was performed the following day at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, and Bejarano began his recovery at home in Del Mar.

Bejarano was the leading jockey at the 2008 Del Mar meet and is currently fourth in the nation with $8,286,499.

Ferrer said Bejarano is expected to be back riding at Del Mar on Friday, August 28.