Trainer On Six Months Probation For Positive Test From Filly

BELEN, N.M. (AP) – The state Racing Commission today placed one of the state’s top trainers on six months’ probation because one of his horses tested positive for cocaine after a race at the State Fair meet last September.

Fred Danley could have had his license suspended for up to six months under a zero tolerance policy for prohibited drugs in race horses. However, the state Racing Commission found mitigating circumstances and imposed probation instead.

A hearing officer in the case noted a lack of security at the test barn where a urine sample was taken from the horse. He also says the sample was picked up by a non-licensed courier in violation of commission rules.

Danley was the leading trainer at Sunland Park last year.

(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

AP-NY-04-27-06 1804EDT