On the TunneySide of Sports February 21, 2022 #889 Up next… Mandaloun Replaces Medina Spirit
After further review… Just last week the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) declared Mandaloun owned by Juddmonte, an international horse racing enterprise founded by Prince Khalid bin Abdullah, Mandaloun the Kentucky Derby winner just as they had declared Medina Spirit, who tested positive in the 2021 Kentucky Derby, ineligible. Mandaloun had finished second. Medina Spirit was found to have Betamethasone, an illegal substance banned on race day in Kentucky. Medina Spirit died in December 2021 following a workout at the Santa Anita racetrack.
Medina Spirit was trained by Bob Baffert who has been suspended for two years by KHRC This would have been Baffert’s seventh Kentucky Derby win. And, of course, Baffert’s lawyer will appeal. Baffert is a hall of fame trainer and if you read his horse racing accomplishments, it is easy to see why. Unfortunately, if you look more closely and were to compare Baffert’s total career wins and suspensions it is obvious it is less than authentic. He has gained the enmity of his rivals who believe he has persistently cheated. These suspicions were fueled by 29 failed drug tests by his horses over 4 decades.
Looks like thoroughbred racing is under the microscope again. I say again because my family has been in California thoroughbred horse racing for the last 70 years. My father, Jim Sr. was recruited by California Thoroughbred Horse Racing Association and served 20 as a Steward at three California Racetracks. Mind you my dad had never been on a horse let alone knowledgeable about racing rules. However, he was a well-respected sports official and could recognize a foul when he saw one. During his 20-year career, he not only recognized what fouls needed correction but was honored for his authenticity.
Further my brother, Peter Tunney, had a similar role for 30 years as General Manager of Golden Gate Fields in Albany, California. Under his careful eye, thoroughbred racing held steady. My son, Michael, worked at those same California racetracks for a lengthy tenure as well. I’ve watched them all closely.
Thoroughbred horse racing officials as well as those who breed, train, and own these wonderful athletes must strive to maintain a high level of authenticity. The public who attends and wagers demand authentic racing.
Will you ensure in everything you do is authentic?
To contact Jim, go to www.jimtunney.com or email jim@jimtunney.com. “Impartial Judgment” is now out of print but is available for $20 with free shipping from the website or contact Jim at 2962 Club Rd. Ste #32 Pebble Beach, CA. 93953. It includes Jim’s autograph.
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To contact Jim, go to www.jimtunney.com or email jim@jimtunney.com.
