Prior week fines & suspensions in the USA

This past week there were a number of positive test results reported from harness racing commissions to the United States Trotting Association.

Nicholas Devita received a $1,000 fine as his horse, Stepabovetherest, raced at Pocono Downs on Oct. 8, 2024, and afterwards tested positive for Tranexamic Acid. Mr. Devita has accepted the penalty and waived the right to appeal.

Dean Eckley has been fined $1,500 and suspended for 15 days as his horse, Need Ur Opinion, was found to test positive for Dexamethasone on 9/22/24 at Harrah’s Philadelphia. It is not known as of yet if the ruling will be appealed.

Kimberly Vafiades was fined $1,500 and suspended for 15 days as her horse, Alex Having Fun, came up positive for Methocarbamol on Nov. 4, 2024, at Plainridge Park. This was her second medication violation within this past year. Mrs. Vafiadea subsequently waived her right to a split sample in addition to a formal hearing.

For the complete USTA report on fines and suspensions this past week, click here.

by Harnesslink Media