Medication Complaint Filed Over Miller-Trained Hembree
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
Trainer Peter Miller in October 2019 at Santa Anita Park
The California Horse Racing Board has filed a complaint against trainer Peter Miller after Hembree tested positive for isoflupredone after winning the Joe Hernandez Stakes (G2T) at Santa Anita Park Jan. 1.
The presence of isoflupredone, one of the more commonly used intra-articular corticosteroids, was confirmed in a split-sample test, the complaint stated. Isoflupredone is categorized in Class 4 Penalty Class C by the CHRB. Penalty Class C medications carry suggested first-offense fines of $500 to $1,000, absent mitigating circumstances. Increased fines and suspensions are issued for multiple offenses by a trainer within a 365-day period.
A hearing on the matter is scheduled for April 9, according to CHRB spokesman Mike Marten. Steward rulings typically follow hearings, though rulings and disciplinary action can be announced weeks or months after a complaint.
Hembree, a 7-year-old horse owned by Tom Kagele, scored by three-quarters of a length in the Joe Hernandez over True Valour. This stakes win came a start after he was claimed for $62,500 when victorious in an allowance optional claimer at Churchill Downs Nov. 19. An earner of more than $929,000, Hembree also won the Nearctic Stakes (G2T) at Woodbine in 2018 for previous owner Three Diamonds Farm and trainer Mike Maker.
The son of Proud Citizen finished fifth in his most recent start in the Thunder Road Stakes (G3T) at Santa Anita Feb. 6.