The appeal that sought to overturn the disqualification of Bob Baffert’s horse, Medina Spirit, from the 2021 Kentucky Derby has been rejected by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC).
Baffert’s desperate bid to contest the initial disqualification is now expected to invite a likely court challenge for a final resolution.
Medina Spirit, the star horse of Baffert’s stable, was stripped of its Kentucky Derby win after the thoroughbred tested positive for a prohibited substance, betamethasone, in a post-race drug test.
The outcome led to stiff penalties including two-years suspension for Baffert from Churchill Downs, recreational restrictions and financial reparations.
Reflecting on the implications of the ruling, Craig Robertson, Baffert’s attorney, signalled the determination to challenge the judgement in court while confirming the denial of the appeal.
Meanwhile, the KHRC remains committed to preserving the integrity of horse racing, paradoxically and effectively hampering Baffert’s professional standing.
The rejected appeal further emphasises the pertinent issue of doping in the horse racing community worldwide.
It continues to feed the narrative of the tumultuous journey of Medina Spirit and hints at the gritty determination of Baffert to reclaim the horse’s Kentucky Derby honour.
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