Trainer Taylor Suspended 6 Years for Banned Substances

Trainer Joseph Taylor has been banned six years after two of his trainees tested positive for banned substances. 

Taylor, who is based out of Parx Racing, admitted to the violations and accepted the penalties according to the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit's website. 

Cajun Cousin  and Classy American  tested positive for methylphenidate and clenbuterol and are provisionally suspended after their positive tests. 

Taylor, in his eighth year as a trainer, was the top trainer at Parx in 2019, second in 2020, and third in 2018. His career record stands at 327-331-290 from 2,011 starts with $9,691,380 in earnings.

The National Institutes of Health describes Methylphenidate as a "powerful central nervous system stimulant with a high potential for abuse in horse racing." The NIH lists Clenbuterol as a "potent selective bronchodilator that is used to treat bronchospasm."

Classy American finished second in a June 20 allowance race at Parx prior to being disqualified. The Uncle Lino gelding's provisional suspension lasts 14 months dating back to the race date and all purses, compensation, and prizes are forfeited. There is also a $12,500 fine for each violation. 

Cajun Cousin, a Cajun Breeze filly, finished second in a June 18 claiming race and first in another July 12 prior to her disqualifications. She faces the same penalties as Classy American retroactively to June 18.