Horse racing-Churchill Downs ends three-year suspension of trainer Baffert

Churchill Downs

19/07/2024 23:05

By Rory Carroll
       July 19 (Reuters) - Churchill Downs on Friday said it
had ended its suspension of Bob Baffert after the trainer took
responsibility for the positive drug test of Medina Spirit, who
finished first at the 2021 Kentucky Derby but was later
disqualified. 
    Baffert was originally suspended for two years in the wake
of the horse's positive tests for anti-inflammatory drug
betamethasone and the ban had been extended through the end of
2024 until Baffert reversed course on Friday and admitted
wrongdoing. 
    "I accept responsibility for Medina Spirit's positive test
in the 2021 Kentucky Derby," Baffert said in a statement.
    "I am responsible for any substance found in the horses that
I train, and I have paid a very steep price with a three-year
suspension and the disqualification of Medina Spirit's
performance. 
    "I understand and appreciate that Churchill Downs and the
Kentucky Horse Racing Commission took steps to enforce the rules
that they believed were necessary to protect the safety and
integrity of horse racing and the reputation of the Kentucky
Derby." 
    Baffert, 71, is one of the most recognisable figures in the
sport he has dominated. 
    Despite the disqualification of Medina Spirit, Baffert has
still won the annual Run for the Roses a record six times. 
    The Hall of Famer also trained 2015 Triple Crown winner
American Pharoah and 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify.
    "I very much look forward to returning to Churchill Downs
and getting back to the Winner's Circle," he said.
    Medina Spirit collapsed and died after a workout at Santa
Anita Park in December 2021. The dark bay colt was three years
old. 
    Churchill Downs, which previously accused Baffert of not
being honest about the positive test, said it would rescind the
suspension immediately. 
    "We are satisfied that Mr. Baffert has taken responsibility
for his actions, completed a substantial penalty and is
committed to running in full compliance with the rules and
regulations going forward," track owner Churchill Downs
Incorporated said.
    "All parties agree that it is time to bring this chapter to
a close and focus on the future. Mr. Baffert is welcome to
return to any of CDI's racetracks, including our flagship
Churchill Downs Racetrack, and we wish him and his connections
good luck in their future competitive endeavours."

 (Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles
Editing by Christian Radnedge)
 ((Rory.Carroll@thomsonreuters.com Follow me on Twitter
@rorydcarroll; 503-830-8017;))