Editor’s note: Last week, a Thoroughbred Daily News story concerning the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit’s (HIWU) suspension of Thoroughbred trainer Jorge Duarte Jr. for an obvious contamination positive was posted on the USTA website. This past week, and following significant exposure in industry trades and outcry on social media, the TDN reported that HIWU had lifted the suspension. The article indicates that Duarte was able to show that the contamination likely was caused by a freelance hotwalker at Delaware Park.
The USTA, with an eye on what the regulatory landscape might look like if the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) comes to harness racing, applauds the reversal. Nevertheless, it remains concerned about HISA/HIWU’s “guilty until proven innocent” approach and the plethora of apparent contamination positives that have resulted in penalties. Mr. Duarte served 15 days of a provisional suspension for something that he clearly did not do and before he had the opportunity to defend himself in a formal hearing. This must not continue. Further, the Association urges the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to adopt no-effect thresholds as petitioned by the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association in July.
Columbus, OH — According to the The Thoroughbred Daily News, “The Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit has lifted the suspension assessed to trainer Jorge Duarte Jr. in the wake of one of his horses testing positive for methamphetamine after a race at Delaware Park in May. Duarte is the private trainer for Richard Santulli’s Colts Neck Stables.
“On June 26, Duarte was informed that a horse he trained named Happy Cat (Kitten’s Joy) had tested positive for methamphetamine following a May 22nd race at Delaware Park. On September 5, he was issued a provisional suspension of 60 days.
“After presenting additional information to HIWU in the form of an affidavit on September 18, Duarte’s suspension was lifted by HIWU.”
To read the complete story on Thoroughbred Daily News, click here.