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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2019
by: Valerie Mellema
It's turning out to be a very interesting week in horse racing. Here's the latest weekly news update.
Breaking: NY Times Claims Justify Failed Drug Test After Santa Anita Derby
The NY Times reported September 11th, 2019 that the 2018 Triple Crown winner JUSTIFY failed a drug test April 7th, 2018 after winning the Santa Anita Derby (G1). The author of the story, Joe Drape, reported that it took the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) took over a month to confirm the results before dropping the case and that the colt reportedly tested positive for a high amount of the substance scopolamine, which is banned due to its ability to act as a bronchodilator.
According to Thoroughbred Daily News, Dr. Rick Author, the Equine Medical Director of the California Horse Racing Board stated that he found several inaccuracies in the story due to the "reporter not understanding the normal regulatory processes in horse racing."
CHRB Executive Director Rick Baedeker told the NY Times that scopolamine "is also known to contaminate feed." He stated that environmental contamination is often the defense in such cases and that "We could end up in Superior Court one day."
Bob Baffert told Horse Racing Nation that he will issue a response on Thursday.
Keeneland Yearling Sale On Fire
Right when you thought there was a sales topper at $4.1 million, Mandy Pope takes it one step higher, signing the ticket on a record $8.2 million for Hip 428, a yearling filly by AMERICAN PHAROAH out of the mare LESLIE'S LADY. The mare has produced champions such as BEHOLDER, MENDELSSOHN and INTO MISCHIEF. The filly is a historical sales topper for Keeneland.
LESLIE'S LADY is a TRICKY CREEK mare, owned by Clarkland Farm. At 23 years old, this will be the last filly sold from her, as Clarkland owner, Fred Mitchell, states that he will be keeping the next two fillies out of her. He stated that the fillies will stay there for the kids and grandkids to keep the farm in the family for the rest of their lives.
On Tuesday of the sale, Godolphin purchased Hip 498, a CURLIN colt, for $4.1 million. They also purchased the son of Kentucky Oaks winner BELIEVE YOU CAN by WAR FRONT, Hip 258, sold for $2.9 million.The half-sister to JAYWALK by EMPIRE MAKER sold as Hip 485 for $2 million. The son of Kentucky Oaks winner BELIEVE YOU CAN by WAR FRONT, Hip 258, sold for $2.9 million to Godolphin. The $1.3 million son of AMERICAN PHAROAH, Hip 382, purchased by Coolmore will go trainer Bob Baffert.
A total of 20 yearlings sold for seven figures in Book 1 of the sale, with seven of those selling for $2 million or more.
The Jockey Club Announces Consideration of Limiting Stud Books
The proposal stems from a reduced foal-crop number that averages slightly more than 20,000 with a growing number of stallions covering over 140 mares per season. The thought is that there's a growing lack of diversity. The rule to limit the stud books would start with the 2021 breeding season. The Jockey Club currently reports that there are 43 stallions covering 140 or more mares.
Got Stormy 8-5 Morning Line Woodbine Stakes Favorite
Got Stormy named the 8-5 morning line favorite for the Woodbine Stakes (G1T), September 14th. The race is a Win and You're In for the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1T). Joining the 4 year old filly is the Chris Brown trained RAGING BULL, winner of the Hollywood Derby, and the two time stakes winning Pin Oak Stable's homebred, SYNCHRONY.
Jerry Hollendorfer Loses Appeal at Golden Gate Fields
An Alameda County judge denied Jerry Hollendorfer's request for a temporary restraining order that would have allowed him to race at Golden Gate Fields. Hollendorfer previously won a request that allowed him to race at Del Mar. Next will be a request to allow him to run in the Santa Anita fall meet that starts September 27th.
Have a great week!
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