The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission's hearing regarding the actions of its chief steward, John Veitch, concluded late last week. The 66-year-old Hall of Fame trainer defended his actions in the final day of the hearing and stated that his family's reputation was on the line
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According to a report by the Lexington Herald-Leader, a ruling in the case is at least five months away. The third and final day of the hearing took place Thursday, June 30.
"I felt my side of the story should be heard," Veitch was quoted as saying in the article. "It reflects on my name and my father's reputation, and that's something that I value very highly."
Veitch is facing the possibility of a five-year suspension and $50,000 in fines. The KHRC alleged that Veitch did not do his job in assessing and dealing with the John Velazquez-ridden Life At Ten in the 2010 Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic. The distaffer had gone off as the second wagering choice in the high-profile race. Minutes before the dash, Velazquez had gone on the record during a live ESPN broadcast as saying that his filly was not warming up the way she usually did. The filly ended up racing unbelievably flat in the contest and was well distanced at the wire.
"I am very proud of the work I've done in Kentucky and at the racetracks," Veitch was quoted as saying by the Lexington Herald-Leader. "I am very proud to work for the commission and be chief state steward. I've done my utmost to uphold the integrity of racing."
(With files from the Lexington Herald-Leader)
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