Acclaimed Barbadian race horse trainer, Saffie Joseph, Jr has been suspended for 15 days and issued a US$500 fine by the Pennsylvania Racing Commission after his horse Artie’s Princess failed a drug test.
The horse tested positive for Gabapentin after her win in the Grade 2 Presque Isle Downs Masters Stakes last September.
Joseph has denied any wrongdoing and is appealing the ruling.
“I had never even heard of this medication and it was never used on that horse or any horse I’ve had,’’ he said. “We have never had it in the barn. I was completely shocked by this.” (MK)