Robb to start 45-day suspension

Trainer John Robb will begin serving a 45-day suspension on Wednesday after one of his horses tested positive for a banned substance at Belmont Park in June, New York racing officials announced Monday.

Robb had been given a 60-day suspension by the New York Racing and Wagering Board, but the penalty was reduced after Robb waived his right of appeal. The suspension will last through Oct. 16.

Robb was suspended for the finding of the medication Butorphanol, a painkiller, in the post-race urine of Tactical Side, who finished fourth in the first race on June 28 at Belmont Park. Tactical Side is owned by Michael Gill, the leading owner in the country in wins and earnings.

Trainer Greg Martin claimed Tactical Side for $25,000 out of that race, but the positive test voided the claim.