Famed horse trainer Bob Baffert returns to Churchill Downs winning first race back

Posted by author November 27, 2024 Horse Racing

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – Hall of Fame horse trainer Bob Baffert is back under the Twin Spires at Churchill Downs. Baffert’s 2-year-old horse, Barnes, was victorious on Wednesday, Nov. 27 after winning the seventh race.

Wednesday marked Baffert’s return to Churchill Downs following a three-year suspension.(WAVE News)

Wednesday marked Baffert’s return to Churchill Downs following a three-year suspension. In 2021, Baffert was given a two-year ban by Churchill Downs after Kentucky Derby 147 winner Medina Spirit collapsed and died during a workout. Blood tests came back testing positive for betamethasone, an anti-inflammatory steroid medication.

The sample, taken after the Derby, tested positive for just over twice the allowed limit of the drug. Baffert said the sample came from a topical ointment that was used for treating a skin condition.

The ban was extended through the end of this year until Baffert and Churchill Downs came to a mutual agreement, allowing him back in the horse racing capital of the world.

In July 2024, Churchill Downs Incorporated announced the suspension of Bob Baffert from racetracks is rescinded effective immediately, releasing the following statement:

“We are satisfied that Mr. Baffert has taken responsibility for his actions, completed a substantial penalty and is committed to running in full compliance with the rules and regulations going forward. All parties agree that it is time to bring this chapter to a close and focus on the future. Mr. Baffert is welcome to return to any of CDI’s racetracks, including our flagship Churchill Downs Racetrack, and we wish him and his connections good luck in their future competitive endeavors.”

In an interview with FanDuel Sports, Baffert was asked how his return to Churchill Downs has been.

“Oh, it’s been fantastic since the minute I walked in,” Baffert said. “It was awesome. You know everybody’s nice and glad to see me back. I got to tour the whole place. It’s unbelievable what they’ve done here in the last few years.”

Baffert said he was given a private tour of Churchill Downs.

“It’s great to be here,” he said. “Everything’s behind us. You know, as a trainer, you have to focus on what’s in front of you. Live and let live, and you know I’m glad to be back, and I appreciate being here.”