Churchill Downs Suspends Trainer After Failed Drug Test

Tue., June 22, 1999

D. Wayne Lukas, trainer of Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Charismatic, has been suspended by Churchill Downs for 10 days after one of his horses failed a post-race drug test.

The suspension likely will be upheld by other state commissions, meaning Lukas will not be permitted on the grounds of any recognized race track in the country as long as he is suspended. The suspension is scheduled for July 6-15.

The 2-year-old horse tested positive May 16 for benzenemethanol, which is present in most analgesics and antihistamines. Dance Master, a 3-5 favorite in the maiden race, finished second. He was disqualified from the purse money.

Bernie Hettel, an executive of the Kentucky Racing Commission, said benzenemethanol is widely used for minor breathing problems and skin diseases, but is not permitted in a horse’s system when it races.

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Churchill Downs Suspends Trainer After Failed Drug Test

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