NY court hears horse trainer's appeal of ban
May 22, 2012ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - A Kentucky Derby-winning thoroughbred trainer is urging a New York court to reject his 10-year ban from the sport.
Rick Dutrow Jr. argues that a top state racing official appeared biased as a member of the industry organization that first suggested revoking his license.
Dutrow is currently working thanks to temporary court intervention.
His license was revoked in October by the New York Racing and Wagering Board. The board cited infractions including syringes found in Dutrow's desk and an analgesic found in the urine of his horse Fastus Cactus in November 2010 at Aqueduct Racetrack.
Attorney Michael Koenig (KAY'-neg) says the unprecedented punishment is unfair and tainted by Board Chairman John Sabini's (sub-EE'-nee) position in the Association of Racing Commissioners International.
Dutrow trained Big Brown to Derby and Preakness wins in 2008.