Axmaker, Wismer Granted KY Licenses; Rojas Withdraws

The Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation License Review Committee unanimously voted to grant Kentucky racing licenses to Cody Axmaker and Troy Wismer, who have troubled histories in the sport as owners and trainers.

Another trainer who had sought to have a license granted, Murray Rojas, withdrew her application when she was informed by the committee chairman Greg Harbut that she was "almost certain" to have her license request denied. Such a denial could have impacted her licensing in other states. She has raced this year in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Arizona.

Axmaker, Wismer, and Rojas have all been ensnarled in legal or regulatory matters.

Axmaker was suspended in New Jersey after one of his horses died from an apparent clenbuterol overdose after being accidentally fed it at Monmouth Park in May 2021, the trainer previously told BloodHorse.

King: Horse Dies From Clenbuterol Overdose, Trainer Suspended

"I served my suspension, paid my fines, and have been working hard to rebuild," he told the committee.

The committee's approval of Wismer's application was contingent upon Wismer submitting to random alcohol and drug testing and providing the KHRGC with proof of completion of his court-ordered misdemeanor and felony diversion conditions.

Rojas took issue with the committee's decision to ask her to withdraw, noting the United States Supreme Court in 2022 vacated the conviction against her on drug misbranding charges at Penn National Race Course.

"You guys hold me guilty," she said.