By John Pricci — Today the New York Racing Association temporarily banned Bob Baffert from making entries into races at any of its racetracks, including the denial of stall space at any of its three tracks.
Statement from NYRA president and CEO Dave O’Rourke: “In order 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 racing participants…
“That responsibility demands the action taken today in the best interests of Thoroughbred racing.”
The ban extends to anyone employed by Bob Baffert Racing Stables.
Baffert’s attorney W. Craig Robertson III, told Bob Ehalt for Bloodhorse, that “I am just now reviewing the NYRA decision and I will discuss it with Bob, along with all of his legal options. No formal statement or decision until both of those take place.”
NYRA said it took into account failed drug tests that resulted in penalties assessed by officials in Arkansas, California and Kentucky.
Ultimately, the length of the suspension will depend on results gleaned from the ongoing investigation in Kentucky regarding Medina Spirit’s positive post-Kentucky Derby finding of 21 picograms of betamethasone, a legal medication but prohibited on raceday.
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission is awaiting a split-sample result from the horse before rendering a final decision.
4 Responses
See, some people DO have balls In this industry/sport! The NFL should have shown guts with Belichick and the MLB with the Astros!!
Good point in both those instances…
Bye Bob, nobody in NY will miss you.
Maybe, maybe the staff at King Umberto will…