John Sikura | Photo Keeneland
Bob Baffert’s case is sad but very interesting to watch. It has become the perfect platform for agenda-oriented companies and organizations to put a face on ‘justice’. Due process and the right to defend oneself with honesty are fundamental tenets of this country. It protects citizens from undue encroachment by organizations like Churchill, NYRA and others that forbid Baffert from running their race until there is arbitration – no decision. The actions of Churchill Downs clearly prioritize what we already know, which is the value proposition of the Kentucky Derby as their sole commitment to the race. The serial money making from the racetracks, and the dedication to the casino and the revenue from the historic races leave them in no place to be trusted except for those who drive very well the value of CDI stock. The leading face of the race was disqualified from the race at Churchill and could not earn Derby points while the premise argument (a veterinary prescription skin cream) proved to be valid. Will NYRA now reverse itself or stick to its ban? Encouraged by the judge for ignoring due process and a new hearing is scheduled to decide Baffert’s right to race at their track, this new evidence will surely serve as punishment for Baffert. What about the Jockey Club? They have headed HISA and have committed to exposing frauds while dealing with violations fairly. They entered the NYRA lawsuit in their brief and should therefore make a position public. This is also a good test for them.
I want to make it clear that I stand against any form of fraud or illegal drug use. Those found guilty of such crimes will face the harshest punishment. I also believe that jealousy and innuendo without proof is unfair and tarnishes our gaming reputation and can cost people their careers. Ignoring therapeutic drug thresholds, inappropriate discontinuation times, human error, or environmental contamination are not the test of reality. The aim is to remove all illegal drugs from our game and deal ‘positively’ in a way that comes with uniform and fair punishments. I hope and believe that HISA will accomplish all of this and more.
In the interim, the Baffert warehouse is responsible for following the rules and racing protocol in each area he races and that is not in dispute for me. I am opposed to piling up final evidence and draconian expulsion as commensurate punishment for ‘violations’. None included illegal drugs and none were threshold tested for performance enhancement.
I close by admitting that it would probably be best if this letter was not written and I said nothing publicly. Bob Baffert is a friend and an important part of my life and business, so you can question my objectivity. I will counter that by saying that everyone who knows me knows that I speak frankly and do not conform to public opinion or consensus. I do not condone him for the responsibility for his barn, I am only writing the letter because his detractors were vocal, organized and numerous. I because of a desire to lean forward and ask for my favor.
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