Derby-Winning Trainer Continues Suspension Fight

Kentucky Derby-winning trainer Rick Dutrow  has filed a federal lawsuit trying to overturn his 10-year ban from racing in New York for equine drug violations.

The lawsuit, filed this week in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, says the 53-year-old Dutrow has been "irreparably harmed" by the New York State Racing and Wagering Board for what he says is effectively a lifetime ban.

Dutrow, who trained 2008 Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner Big Brown, claims racing officials engaged in "wrongful and malicious actions" against him. He's seeking $10 million for lost earnings, punitive damages and an order lifting the ban.

He had unsuccessfully appealed the ban in state courts.

A spokesman for the New York State Gaming Commission, the agency that succeeded the racing board, says they haven't been served with legal papers and declined to comment.  

Dutrow was denied a Kentucky racing license in 2011, with officials citing his previous suspensions for rules violations.  None involved the Derby-winning horse.