Anne F. Walker

The appellant horse trainer appealed rulings imposing a $20,000 fine, a 5-year suspension, and a 2-year probation following two positive tests for the prohibited drug aminorex in his horses.

The panel found that while the absolute liability rule for positive tests prevailed, the appellant had exercised due diligence and no causal link or source for the aminorex could be established.

Consequently, the panel denied the appeals but varied the penalty, setting aside the remainder of the suspension and eliminating the fine entirely, while imposing a 6-month probation with conditions for ongoing testing.

The purses for the disqualified horses were ordered to be redistributed.