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Ointment led to Medina Spirit's failed test after Ky Derby

Medina Spirit
Posted at 9:34 PM, Dec 03, 2021
and last updated 2021-12-03 21:34:09-05

(AP) — An attorney for trainer Bob Baffert says split-sample urine testing of Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit has shown that a steroid present in the colt’s system came from a topical ointment and not an injection.

Medina Spirit tested positive for the steroid betamethasone after winning the May 1 race and was facing disqualification.

Baffert had said an ointment used to treat the colt for a skin condition daily up until the Derby included the substance.

Baffert's attorney, Craig Robertson, says testing showed Medina Spirit was never injected with a steroid.

Instead, the testing confirmed the steroid's presence came from an ointment.