Belmont Park will not allow the entry of horses trained

 

The decision came while awaiting the outcome of an investigation into Medina Spirit's failed drug test.

 

The New York Equestrian Association (NYRA, in English) suspended coach Bob Baffert's permission on Monday to present the horses he is preparing, led by the Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit, at Belmont Park, and other racetracks found in New York State (Belmont Park, Aqueduct Racetrack, Saratoga Race Course or any other NYRA approved race).

 

The decision came while awaiting the outcome of an investigation into Medina Spirit's failed drug test after winning the Kentucky Derby.

 

"To maintain a successful thoroughbred racing industry in New York, NYRA must protect the integrity of the sport for our fans, the betting public and race participants," said NYRA President and CEO Dave O 'Rourke. "That responsibility calls for action taken today in the best interest of thoroughbred racing."

 

Baffert had not promised to enter any horses in the third stage of the Triple Crown, but he had many in consideration for other races on the day of the Belmont Stakes.

 

NYRA officials say they took into account Baffert's previous sanctions in Kentucky, California and Arkansas, along with the current situation with Medina Spirit, and hope to make a final determination on the length and terms of the suspension based on the information. revealed by the ongoing Kentucky investigation.

 

Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit tested positive for the steroid betamethasone in subsequent tests and faces disqualification unless a second test is negative.

 

Baffert said on May 9 that 21 picograms of the corticosteroid, which can be used to help a horse's joints, showed up in the blood sample.

 

A day later, Baffert said that an ointment used to treat Medina Spirit for a skin condition every day until the Derby included the substance.

 

Even a small amount of betamethasone in a horse's body is not allowed on race day in Kentucky, Maryland and New York.

 

Maryland officials demanded that Medina Spirit, along with Concert Tour, who participated in the Preakness, and Beuutiful Gift, who ran the Black-Eyed Susan event, and finished seventh, undergo three drug tests before they could compete.

 

Baffert has had five violations involving inadmissible levels of medication in his horses in the past 13 months. He was fined in Kentucky and Arkansas and avoided suspension in Arkansas upon appeal.

 

Animal Wellness Action activist Marty Irby applauded NYRA's decision, saying the organization is "elated to see New York State continue to make horse welfare and eradicating cheats from the industry a top priority

 

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