Kentucky Trainer Suspended 180 Days

A trainer who has not had a starter since 2011 has been suspended 180 days by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission as a result of positive drug test in January 2011.

Following an executive session June 5, the KHRC upheld a hearing officer's recommendation to suspend trainer Carol Cobb for 180 days. The action stems from a positive test for the prohibited Class A substance Tramadol in the horse Tricky Tokyo following the first race at Turfway Park Jan. 14, 2011.

According to the Jockey Club Information Systems, Cobb last had a starter in her name in 2011, a year in which she was represented by three winners from 12 starters.

Also during the routine business meeting of the commission, the KHRC's veterinary staff reported there were no catastrophic (fatal) racing injuries during the Keeneland meet, although there were two fatalities during training hours at the Lexington track. The veterinary staff also reported that with one day remaining in the month of May when the report was compiled, there had been no racing fatalities at Churchill Downs.

The KHRC was also informed that commissioner Michael Pitino had resigned his position because he has relocated to Florida. Pitino is the son of University of Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino, a horse owner.