On Saturday, May 30, a tragic morning training accident at Parx left 26-year-old exercise rider Hector Cotto hospitalized with multiple injuries.
From Chelsea Hackbarth of Paulick Report:
“A head-on collision during morning training at Parx Racing in Bensalem, Penn., on Saturday, May 30, has left exercise rider Hector Cotto in the hospital with multiple fractures to his jaw, one arm, and several ribs, according to trainer Robert “Butch” Reid Jr. Cotto was breezing a horse for Reid near the head of the stretch when another horse got loose and careened toward Cotto’s mount head-on. Cotto attempted to pull up his horse, Reid said, but was unable to avoid the loose horse. Neither horse survived the incident.
Reid said Cotto has been moved to the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Center City, Philadelphia, and that he is currently in stable condition.
“We’re trying to take care of him as best we can,” Reid said. ‘He’s been with me five or six years, and he’s just the greatest kid you could ever meet. We’re still in shock.'”
A Go Fund Me has been initialized to assist with Cotto’s medical bills and rehabilation expenses:
“Hector is a hardworking, dedicated horseman whose passion for racing and unwavering commitment to the horses he rides have earned him the admiration and respect of his colleagues, friends, and the entire racing community. Those who know Hector know his strength, kindness, and tireless work ethic.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we are asking for your support to help ease the financial burden on Hector and his family. Funds raised will assist with medical expenses, rehabilitation and recovery costs, post-hospital care, and travel expenses for his parents as they make the journey from Puerto Rico to be by his side throughout his recovery.”