Trainer Sanchez is suspended for lidocaine in 2 horses

Trainer Amador Sanchez was suspended for 30 days after two of his horses tested positive for lidocaine.

The suspension was posted on the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit website and reported earlier by Paulick Report.

The controlled substance was found in Mayheminthepalace after he won a claiming race at Gulfstream Park on Oct. 4. It also was found in Excuses, who finished second in a maiden special weight at Gulfstream on Oct. 6. Both were disqualified.

Sanchez maintained the contamination was the result of groom Wilson Seaman’s use of lidocaine spray and patches for arthritis in his knees, according to the HIWU decision. But it said Sanchez also claimed to have not known Seaman was using the medication, “a clear speculation of evidence.” The attending veterinarian, Dr. Alex Rendon, produced records on both horses devoid of lidocaine use. “However, the HISA submissions of Dr. Rendon did not accurately match his records, therefore casting doubt on his testimony.”

Sanchez also was fined $2,500.

Sanchez had another violation in March in what HIWU called “remarkably similar” circumstances as two horses tested positive for capsaicin after their races at Gulfstream. Seaman, the same groom, said he was using Capsaicin on his arthritic knees, according to the HIWU decision. But Sanchez did not educate his employees concerning all precautions, nor did he take reasonable and practical steps to prevent future contamination.