Contessa Suspended, Fined $1,000 for Bute Positive

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Trainer Gary Contessa has been fined $1,000 and suspended seven days for the finding of the drug Phenylbutazone in post race samples taken from his starter Sheer Silk, a 5-year-old daughter of Western Expression who finished third in the fifth race at Aqueduct April 6. Sheer Silk, ridden by Ramon Dominguez, has been disqualified and placed from third to sixth because of the finding, according to a ruling from the New York State Racing and Wagering Board State Stewards.

Contessa’s suspension, originally issued for 15 days, was shortened to seven when the trainer waived his right of appeal. He will be denied access to all New York tracks from June 25 to July 2, 2007.

Sheer Silk was claimed from Contessa by Juan Serey for Richard T. Woll in her last start on June 22.

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