NM Racing Commission: 12 horses at All American Futurity had illicit drug in their system
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'These poor innocent horses are being administered these illicit drugs to try to get an unfair advantage in our big races,' said Executive Director of the New Mexico Racing Commission Izzy Trejo.
It's a scandal amidst the nation's most lucrative Quarter Horse race held in New Mexico. The All American Futurity, held at the Albuquerque Downs last summer had a $3 million purse. That money is still on hold after lab tests found problems with 12 horses.
'We had over 12 violations on this big day in big money races. The drug found in all 12 samples was one that was recently found in other jurisdictions. It's called Carmoterol,' said Trejo.
The illicit drug is used to build horses' muscles. The racing commission said it found proof in blood and urine samples collected after each race.
As of Wednesday, the horses involved, including the winner of the All American Futurity race Hezgothelook Z, will go on what is called a stewards list.
'That means that these horses cannot run in any licensed jurisdiction in North America until the adjudication process has been finalized,' said Trejo.
The two accused trainers Toby Keeton and Heath Taylor are also being suspended. As for the winnings, those purses will be released for anyone who wasn't involved.
'We have been holding a lot of money. Probably $5 million in purses,' Trejo said.
The racing commission said those involved not only cheated the other participants in the race, they also cheated the betting public. Payouts from that day will remain unchanged.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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