Rick Dutrow, the outspoken trainer of Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Big Brown, is facing a 15-day suspension by Kentucky racing officials after another horse he trains exceeded the allowable limit for a drug that enables horses to breathe easier while exercising.
Two separate drug tests on 8-year-old gelding Salute The Count revealed the horse had twice the allowable limit of Clenbuterol in his system after finishing second in the Aegon Turf Sprint at Churchill Downs on May 2, said John Veitch, chief state steward of the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority, in Louisville on Wednesday.
Clenbuterol, considered a Class B drug by the KHRA, is often used by humans who suffer from asthma. The drug, which Veitch says contains some steroidal properties but is not considered a steroid, is sometimes used by trainers because of its ability to increase a horse's lung capacity.
Dutrow waived his right to a hearing but plans to file a written appeal, which he must do within the next 10 days. There is no timetable on when Dutrow could meet with KHRA executive director Lisa Underwood, Veitch said.
"He will get a stay on his suspension until the appeal is heard," Veitch said.
Dutrow was reprimanded by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board for a similar infraction several years ago.
Jockey Jeremy Rose apologized 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 for an examination and was to have returned Wednesday to trainer Howard Wolfendale's barn.
PRO FOOTBALL
Giants solidify line by re-signing Snee
The New York Giants guaranteed continuity on their offensive line by signing guard Chris Snee to a six-year, $43.5-million contract extension.
Snee, 26, is the son-in-law of Coach Tom Coughlin.
Since winning the Super Bowl, the Giants have re-signed three starters on the offensive line.
The NFL is looking into the March 6 arrest of Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall on a misdemeanor battery charge for allegedly hitting his girlfriend in Atlanta.
NFL spokesman Greg Aiello confirmed the inquiry but declined to elaborate.
