STANTON, Del. — Jockey Jeremy Rose apologized today for striking his mount in the head with a whip, a day after he was given a six-month suspension at Delaware Park.

Rose, who won the 2005 Preakness and Belmont Stakes aboard Afleet Alex, was suspended for striking Appeal to the City during Monday's third race. He struck the mare on the side of her head and the horse had some hemorrhaging around one eye. She was sent to the New Bolton Center, which treated Barbaro, for an examination and was set to return Wednesday to trainer Howard Wolfendale's barn.

"I want everyone to know that this was an accident and not an intentional act on my part," Rose said in a statement. "I did not mean to hit her in the face. As a jockey, I have the responsibility to give my best effort and use my skills to allow the horse I am riding to perform at his/her best. I also have the responsibility to protect the health and welfare of my horse."

Wolfendale said the horse's vision was not seriously impaired and he believed this was an accident.

Rose said he intended to hit Appeal to the City on the shoulder and accidentally struck her in the face. Rose said once he crossed the finish line, he immediately told Wolfendale's wife about the incident and apologized, and called the stewards.

Rose will not ride until an appeal on the Delaware Park stewards' decision is heard July 22.