Masochistic will point to Churchill Downs Stakes

Masochistic, a four-time winner who failed a drug test last year, won his 2015 debut in an optional claimer at 6 1/2 furlongs at Santa Anita on Saturday. The win left trainer A.C. Avila planning a start for Masochistic in the $500,000 Churchill Downs Stakes at seven furlongs on May 2.

Over the weekend, it was not clear whether Avila will train Masochistic this spring.

The trainer was hit with a 60-day suspension and $10,000 fine by the California Horse Racing Board on Friday after Masochistic tested in excess of the permitted level of the tranquilizer acepromazine in March 2014. The racing board remanded the decision to track stewards, who are expected to issue a ruling on Thursday stating that Avila’s suspension will begin on March 15.

Avila said on Saturday that he plans to appeal the decision. If granted an appeal, Avila could continue to train until the case is heard.

Saturday, Masochistic led throughout setting a fast pace and drew away to win by 2 1/4 lengths over Batti Man in 1:14.94. Avila said further improvement is expected from Masochistic.

“I didn’t have him tight,” Avila said. “I had him 70 percent ready. He likes to go step by step.”

Masochistic has won 4 of 6 starts. He was second in the Los Alamitos Mile last September before being sidelined through the fall with a quarter crack, Avila said.

- additional reporting by Brad Free