Rick Dutrow's Lastest Suspension Filled with Drama

When Rick Dutrow went to appeal his latest suspension, he never thought he’d get dragged into the drama that has unfolded in the past few days.

Dutrow was originally suspended for 90 days for a positive drug test, found after Fastus Cactus won a race at Aqueduct last fall, and for possession of hypodermic needles found in his barn.  The positive drug test is a 60 day offense, while the needles found in his barn added another 30 days.

The New York State Racing and Wagering Board received a letter from Racing Commissioners International President, Ed Martin, on February 17 requesting a formal review of Dutrow’s license to find a reason as to why it should be given back to the trainer.

“I formally request the Board to commence a proceeding and issue a notice to show cause as to why his license should not be revoked given what appears to be a lifetime pattern of disregard for the rules of racing,” Martin’s letter said.

The letter also said that Dutrow has violated rules at least 64 times in nine different states since 1969, in addition to failing to adhere to licensing requirements, entering ineligible horses, and other violations detrimental to racing.

Dutrow’s lawyer, Gerard Romski, responded to Martin’s comments in an e-mail to the Daily Racing Form by saying the statements could unfairly harm Dutrow’s appeal and that they are politically motivated due to Dutrow’s success on the track.   

Romski ended his letter by saying, “In regard to the recent suspension, which as you know are the subject of an appeal, we are thankful that the current members of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board respects due process and are confident that when all the facts are brought to the light of day that Mr. Dutrow will be fully vindicated.”

Dutrow trained 2008 Kentucky Derby (G1) and Preakness Stakes (G1) winner Big Brown, and was one of the key figures in a Congressional hearing about steroids in horse racing after admitting he used steroids on his animals, including Big Brown.