Jockey Found Dead at Churchill Downs: Michael Baze, a 24-year-old jockey who rode this year's Kentucky Derby second-place finisher Nehro to its only win, was found dead in his vehicle Tuesday afternoon at Churchill Downs. No signs of foul play were found. Baze had 34 wins out of 238 starts this year with purse earnings of nearly $1.2 million.
The rumors around the track today are that this was cocaine (he was scheduled to go to court Thursday for a cocaine charge from back in November). Such a tough sport for "smaller" people (it's the only sport that an ambulance follows you!!) and so many have addiction problems--whether it be eating disorders, alcohol, or drugs. RIP Michael.
posted by jagsnumberone at 02:21 PM on May 11, 2011