Trainer gets one-year drug ban

Woodbine-based trainer John DiMarco has appealed a one-year suspension imposed by the Ontario Racing Commission after one of his horses tested positive for the Class 1 drugs codeine and morphine.

More the Mari'er, a 3-year-old filly who had finished third in the sixth race at Woodbine on Nov. 29, has been declared unplaced for all purposes with the exception of parimutuel wagering.

DiMarco's suspension was to run from March 8, 2008 through March 7, 2009. The ruling, released by the Ontario Racing Commission on Thursday, also calls for DiMarco to be fined the sum of $5,000, payable upon the completion of his suspension, if his appeal is denied.