Thoroughbred Racing Fan Association, Inc.
Thoroughbred Racing Fan Association, Inc.
John Veitch
Photo by Anne Eberhardt
11/30/14
John Veitch Wrongfully Dismissed
The horses were on the track for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff in 2010 when it appeared that the favorite Life At Ten was showing signs of trouble. Jerry Bailey, television personality, reported his observations live. Jockey John Velasquez reported nothing; nor did trainer Todd Pletcher. As the race was being run it was clear Bailey’s astute eye had seen something. Life At ten was not running his race. He crossed the finish-line last. For the sake of the horse and the players, the question was, “should have the Stewards noticed the problem and taken action?”
After much social media chatter and a thorough investigation, it was determined they should have and blamed head Steward John Veitch. He was dismissed of his duties more than a year later.
In the three years that have followed, appeals and court cases followed. Veitch continually claiming innocence and the authorities and courts ruling against him, until last week when a Circuit Court judge ruled that former Kentucky chief state steward John Veitch was improperly dismissed from his position in 2011 and has ordered Veitch reinstated with back wages.
Read Paulick Story and Bloodhorse Story
2010 Breeders’ Cup Ladies’ Classic