Harness: Trainer Nick Surick reinstated from suspension

When eight horses from the barn of trainer Nick Surick were scratched starting on December 20 at The Meadowlands and Dover Downs, a report came out on Harnesslink.com stating that the trainer was suspended indefinitely by the New Jersey Racing Commission. After a hearing on Friday morning (12/28) where Surick was represented by attorneys Howard Taylor and Joe Faraldo, the conditioner’s license was restored to good standing.

“It was documented that Nick didn’t violate any rules,” said Taylor. “The ruling to reinstate his license was made today and the decision will be released tomorrow.”

While Taylor wouldn’t go into the circumstances behind why Surick’s license was suspended, he did say that there was question in the room as to why the action was taken in the first place.

The suspension by the commission caused 29 horses trained by Surick to be scratched from December 20 to 22. It also prevented him from entering any of his 60-plus horses for 8 days, costing him even more opportunity to make a living. Despite the substantial loss in income, Taylor said that there were no immediate plans to pursue a course of action against the state, but he added, “It is not being ruled out.”

When reached for comment, Surick, who is fourth in North America with 307 training wins, referred all inquiries to Taylor.