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Kentucky Derby Purse Money Being Held Until Investigation Into Medina Spirit Is Completed

The owner of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit has requested another blood test after the horse failed a postrace test. The Kentucky Horse Commission is investigating.

Medina Spirit tested positive for a steroid that is allowed and used for joint relief in horses.

But the horse’s blood sample exceeded allowable limits.

Churchill Downs has suspended Medina Spirit’s trainer Bob Baffert until the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission completes an investigation.

Churchill Downs Incorporated spokeswoman Tonya Abeln said purse money from the race is also being held.

“We purposefully do not pay out the purse money from these races until test results have been verified by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission,” Abelin said.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says he’s disappointed in the news.

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