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[Andy Asaro]

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Excerpt:

NYRA contends that Baffert and Vitali "have engaged in conduct that is detrimental to the best interests of the sport of Thoroughbred racing or potentially injurious to the health or safety of horses or riders.

"Further, as detailed in the respective statements of charges, this conduct warrants revocation or suspension of their right to train horses, enter races, or engage in any racing-related activity at all NYRA properties including Aqueduct Racetrack, Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course."

NYRA provides a formalized mechanism for a respondent to reply to charges as part of its Hearing Rules and Procedures. It allows for a respondent to reply to charges and to participate in a hearing in accordance with due process rights.

Baffert has a hearing scheduled to begin on Sept. 27. Vitali's is scheduled to begin Sept. 30.

“NYRA has a responsibility to protect the integrity of the sport of thoroughbred racing,” said NYRA President & CEO Dave O’Rourke. “We are determined to ensure the actions taken in furtherance of that goal comport with the requirements of due process, which is what the hearing rules and procedures established by NYRA provide.”