Langley issues statement on Pena suspension
May 25, 2012,from the USTA Communications Department
Editor’s Note: The following is a statement from USTA President Phil Langley on the suspension of trainer Lou Pena by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board.
Columbus, OH — The integrity of harness racing is of paramount importance to the USTA and everyone who participates in our sport.
The USTA has long stressed the need for jurisdictions to cooperate in investigations of this type and we congratulate New York and New Jersey for their efforts. Perhaps this will convince states to cooperate in much needed “out of competition” testing.
USTA Rule 22, Section 14, states, in part, that “All persons and horses under suspension or expulsion by any State Racing Commission or by a reputable Trotting Association of a foreign country shall upon notice from such commission or association to the Executive Vice President, be suspended or expelled by this Association.” In keeping with this rule of reciprocity, the USTA membership of Mr. Luis (Lou) Pena has been suspended.
We will continue to closely monitor all further proceedings in New York and, if necessary, act accordingly based upon any subsequent developments.
- Lou Pena suspended for more than 1,700 equine drug violations (Thursday, May 24, 2012)
The New York State Racing and Wagering Board, after a comprehensive and groundbreaking investigation with assistance from racing officials from New Jersey, has suspended harness trainer Luis (Lou) Pena immediately and indefinitely for illegally drugging horses in nearly 700 races in New York State and amassing more than 1,700 equine drug violations.