Officials at 1/ST, the consumer-facing brand of The Stronach Group–parent company of a portfolio of several California racetracks and/or training facilities–have issued a statement in the aftermath of the 90-day suspension handed down to trainer Bob Baffert.
The statement, in its entirety, reads: “The California Horse Racing Board announced on Saturday, Apr. 2 that “[trainer Bob Baffert is now suspended pursuant to CHRB Rule 1484].” California has thus reciprocated the suspension against Bob Baffert imposed by the Kentucky Racing Commission, which will begin on Apr. 4, 2022. Because of the CHRB's ruling, any trainer on the grounds at Santa Anita Park, Golden Gate Fields, San Luis Rey Downs or Los Alamitos Race Course who may be the transferee of horses from the Baffert barn will be required to apply for stalls for those horses from the Santa Anita or Golden Gate Fields racing offices, as applicable, for review and approval. A Change of Trainer form will also be required to be submitted in order to enter races following such transfer. Horses that are not transferred to a trainer in California will be required to leave the grounds prior to Apr. 4.
“Because the suspension is over 60 days, under the CHRB rules, during the term of the suspension, Mr. Baffert will be banned from all enclosures under the jurisdiction of the CHRB and Mr. Baffert shall not be permitted to be involved in the training of horses who have previously been under his care. Any trainer who may apply for stalls in anticipation of a transfer will be required to comply fully with any applicable restrictions.
“The CHRB rules require Baffert to vacate his barn at Santa Anita Park prior to the start of the suspension on Apr. 4, along with removing all signage, colors and training equipment belonging to the trainer. The closing day of Santa Anita's winter-spring season is June 19, 2022. The 90-day suspension from the KHRC concludes the following week.”
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