A fundraising effort is underway to help 26-year-old exercise rider Hector Cotto, who has been hospitalized in Philadelphia since Saturday after being unable to avoid a head-on collision with a loose horse while he was breezing another Thoroughbred during morning training at Parx.
Chelsea Hackbarth of the Paulick Report broke the story on Monday about the May 30 accident, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of the two horses involved. TDN could not confirm the names of the deceased horses prior to deadline for this story.
Hackbarth quoted trainer Robert Reid, Jr., who said that Cotto was breezing one of the horses in his stable near the head of the stretch when another horse got loose and careened toward Cotto's mount. Cotto attempted to get out of the way but couldn't, and suffered “multiple fractures to his jaw, one arm, and several ribs,” the Paulick Report story stated.
According to a GoFundMe page established by Reid's daughter, Whitney, to help Cotto, “Hector faces a long, difficult, and uncertain road to recovery. The coming weeks and months will bring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and many challenges for Hector and his family.
“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,” the GoFundMe page stated.
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