Bob Baffert horse who failed drugs test after winning Kentucky Derby goes in as favourite to win Preakness
CONTROVERSIAL Medina Spirit has been made favourite for Saturday’s Preakness Stakes after the draw was made on Tuesday.
Bob Baffert’s horse triumphed in the Kentucky Derby on May 1 but has since tested positive for a banned substance.
The Hall of Fame trainer has now admitted his horse was treated with an ointment that contained a banned substance.
But Baffert, who used the treatment on Medina Spirit due to a skin condition and denies any wrongdoing, will let his horse hunt down the next leg of the famous Triple Crown.
After being drawn in stall three for the next leg, the Preakness Stakes, the bookies have made his controversial star the narrow favourite at 9-5.
Just behind is Concert Tour – also trained by Baffert – at 5-2, with Midnight Bourbon at 5-1.
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Some punters have hit out at the US racing authorities and Pimlico racecourse for allowing the horse to run while the positive test overhangs the horse.
The draw was originally scheduled for Monday, but was moved back to allow authorities to make a decision.
Baffert had threatened legal action if the horse wasn’t able to race.
His attorney threatened: “We are prepared to file a temporary restraining order that would prohibit Pimlico Race Course from denying Baffert the ability to enter Medina Spirit in Saturday’s Preakness Stakes.”
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Medina Spirit’s owners, Amr F. Zedan, has also backed Baffert.
He said in a statement: “Bob Baffert today reported that a topical ointment was recommended and dispensed by an equine vet to treat a skin rash appearing on the hips of Medina Spirit may have been the containment source leading to the post-race positive following Medina Spirit’s Kentucky Derby victory.
“I have reviewed the picture of the rash and fully understand the need for care ad the good faith intentions in using the ointment supplied by the vet.
“I want to express my full trust and support for Bob Baffert as we cheer on Medina Spirit in the 146th running of the Preakness this weekend.”
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