New York stewards fine Maker for taking recently claimed horses to Florida
The New York stewards fined trainer Mike Maker for running two horses he recently claimed at Aqueduct in the Claiming Crown at Gulfstream Park last weekend. The fine was $3,000 but was reduced to $1,500 for Maker waiving his right of appeal.
Maker claimed Great Lou and Creaky Cricket at Aqueduct on Nov. 4 and 5. New York state law prohibits trainers from running horses out of town who were claimed at a New York Racing Association track until the meet at which the horse was claimed ends or for 30 days – whichever is longer – without first seeking permission from the stewards.
Steve Lewandowski, the steward for the state gaming commission, said Maker did not seek permission.
Great Lou finished 10th in the Claiming Crown Express. Creaky Cricket finished fifth in the Claiming Crown Canterbury.