Borell-McIngvale Dispute Could Go to Court
Image:
Description:
Photo: Skip Dickstein
Maria Borell
The ongoing dispute between trainer Maria Borell and owner James McIngvale took another turn Nov. 4, when Borell's attorney indicated there may be future legal action taken regarding purse money earned by Runhappy this year.
Contrary to other reports, Borell's lawyer Richard Getty denied he filed a lawsuit against James McIngvale for Borell—who seeking a $124,500 share in purse money for Runhappy's victories in the XpressBet Breeders' Cup Sprint (gr. I), Stoll Keenon Ogden Phoenix Stakes (gr. III), and NYRA.com King's Bishop Stakes (gr. I)—although he didn't rule out future legal action if out-of-court talks fall through.
BALAN: Borell Says Runhappy Owner Owes Purse Money
Getty also said that comments made in the media by McIngvale and his wife Linda have been defamatory toward Borell. Getty has taken issue with what he believes is an implication made by the McIngvales that Borell wasn't responsible for training Runhappy.
"I did put their lawyer on notice today, that they have now crossed the line and defamed (Borell), which can lead to additional damages," Getty said. "There have been references that she didn't train the horse. I have all kinds of text (messages) where she is directing what to do with the horse. She was clearly training the horse. It's unquestionable. You could knock me over with a feather when I read that. It's absurd."
The McIngvales' lawyer, Hank Stout, disagrees with Getty over his clients' comments in the media.
"It was a team effort in doing everything," Stout said. "No one person is better than the other. Everyone contributed to the success (of Runhappy). As to the other allegations, we obviously disagree with what Mr. Getty is saying (about defamation)."
A day after their Breeders' Cup win with Runhappy, the McIngvales and racing manager Laura Wohlers removed Borell as the trainer of the Super Saver colt.
BALAN: Borell Out as Trainer for Runhappy
Wohlers has taken over care of Runhappy, and is expected to send him West to compete in the Malibu Stakes (gr. I) late in the year at Santa Anita Park.