Asmussen's Woodbine string monitored

Reacting to the news that a horse trained by Steve Asmussen has tested positive for the Class 2 drug lidocaine in a race at Lone Star Park, Woodbine has begun putting Asmussen's entrants under its surveillance program.

Asmussen horses entered to race at Woodbine will be monitored beginning five hours before their post times by Woodbine security, who will restrict access to designated handlers. Jamie Martin, Woodbine's senior vice president of racing, said that the surveillance is a "house" rule.

"It comes into effect when a trainer incurs a Class 1 or Class 2 positive, even when it's under appeal and progressing toward a hearing, and would continue for the duration of any suspension and for six months following a suspension," said Martin.

The Texas Racing Commission is scheduled to hold a hearing into Asmussen's case on July 18.

This is Asmussen's first year at Woodbine, and he has 30 horses at the track.

The surveillance program began Sunday. An assistant, Steve Flint, sent out Juliet's Spirit, A Day for Dancing, and Fanci Candi to finish first, second, and fourth on Monday in the My Dear, a $151,200 stakes for 2-year-old fillies. After Tuesday's card, the Asmussen barn was second in races won at the meet with 16 and sixth in money won with almost $870,000.- Bill Tallon