Baffert Fined by Churchill Stewards

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Trainer Bob Baffert has been fined $500 by the Churchill Downs stewards for two separate altercations with security personnel on Kentucky Derby Day.

In a telephone conference June 3 with chief steward John Veitch and Baffert, it was noted that the first incident occurred in the paddock runway as the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) starters were being led over from the backstretch. Baffert allegedly made contact with a security officer who would not permit one of the trainer's associates with insufficient credentials into the paddock.

The second incident, according to Veitch, involved one of Baffert's Derby guests, Olympic skier Bode Miller. When Baffert saw Miller would not be permitted in the paddock before the Derby, he intervened, tearing off a security officer's credential and handing it to Miller.

Both security officers are retired Lexington policemen. Veitch said Baffert intends to contact both men to apologize.

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