Schadt appeals DQ of Odds On Equuleus

Harnessracing.com has learned that trainer Robin Schadt has filed an appeal in the ruling of the disqualification of her horse Odds On Equuleus from first to last in a division of the Bluegrass for 2-year-old colt pacers last Saturday night at The Red Mile. Schadt filed the paperwork herself Monday at the offices of the Kentucky Racing Commission located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.

 

Odds On Equuleus finished first in his division for driver John Campbell, but the judges posted the "inquiry" sign as the presentation of the trophy and winner's circle photo were being done. After a delay that lasted approximately 15 minutes, the horse's number was taken down and second-place finisher Rockin Amadeus was moved to first, with all other starters moving up a position in the order. The judges ruled that Campbell abruptly took hold of his horse in the final turn, which caused confusion among the trailing horses, including two that made breaks. The third quarter paced on the lead by Odds On Equuleus was officially timed in :28.4.

 

The appeal by Schadt, who also shares ownership with Dana Parham as Odds On Racing, will now go before a hearing officer on a yet-to-be-scheduled date. The hearing officer will then make a decision on either upholding the ruling, overturning the ruling, or modifying to the ruling, with that recommendation then going before the Kentucky Racing Commission.

 

The track judges, Rich Williams, Anthony Clark and Dan Ross, will only be involved in the hearing process as their testimony is required. They will not be involved any further in any decision that will be made. Also, although some jurisdictions require a fee for an appeal, Kentucky does not require any fee.