Manzi, Bartlett hurt in Freehold Raceway accident

FREEHOLD, N.J. — Drivers Cat Manzi and Jason Bartlett were injured Saturday in an accident during a race at Freehold Raceway.

Track officials say the horses were approaching the homestretch in the sixth race when American Idol, who was on the lead, broke stride and caused Fireintheshark — with Bartlett in the sulky — to swerve outside sharply and unseat him.

Manzi was driving Royal Man, who was behind Fireintheshark, and could not avoid the sudden happenings. He was then tossed onto the track.

Both drivers were taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, said Howard Bruno, the track’s general manager.

Bartlett sprained his ankle and was released Saturday night.

Ellen Manzi, Manzi’s wife, said he fractured his tail bone, needed stitches on his chin and bruised his lower back.