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Quarter Horse trainer Suspended After Horse tests Positive for Methamphetamine
A New Mexico racing commission suspended a prominent trainer after his horse, Js On Fire, tested positive for methamphetamine following a near-victory at a major race. The incident raises serious questions about potential contamination and the integrity of horse racing in the state.
The suspension of Michael Joiner came after Js On Fire,an Oklahoma-bred quarter horse,finished second at the American Quarter Horse Association Racing Challenge on October 19.Subsequent testing revealed approximately 0.485 nanograms of methamphetamine in the animal’s system. while the amount is exceedingly small – described by Joiner’s attorney as “very, very, very small” and “invisible to see with the naked eye” – the New Mexico racing commission promptly sidelined Joiner without a formal hearing.
Joiner swiftly appealed the suspension, arguing that the presence of the drug stemmed from “environmental contamination.” He vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he did not administer the substance to the horse. The initial ban threatened to prevent Joiner from racing anywhere in the United States, a result he actively fought against.
however, on Monday, a state district judge in Albuquerque issued an emergency temporary restraining order, granting Joiner the ability to continue racing while the New Mexico Racing Commission conducts a disciplinary hearing. This hearing, which could last up to a year, will determine the final outcome of the case.
The trainer,who has been working with horse owners for over four decades,has a long and prosperous career. Since 1979, Joiner has trained quarter horses across the United States, with important activity in California, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. His horses have collectively earned over $18.1 million, according to stallione Search. He has also worked with more than 24 world-class owners, including the current and former chairman of the New Mexico Racing Commission.
The judge’s decision hinged on the potential for “irreparable injury or harm” to Joiner if the suspension remained in place. The court determined that the injunction would not negatively impact public interests and that Joiner’s challenge to the suspension had a “substantial likelihood” of success.
During a November 21 hearing, Joiner maintained his innocence, claiming he never administered methamphetamine to Js On Fire. he posited that the contamination likely originated from the Downs of Albuquerque racetrack itself, or from the numerous employees who handled the horses. His motion highlighted a prior incident in October 2022, where a New Mexico State Police video revealed individuals illegally residing in the horse barns and allegedly using methamphetamine.
Joiner’s legal team further argued that his clients have remained supportive,with none requesting his resignation,”which should be a testament to the fact that he does not pose a danger to the horse racing industry.” They also asserted that Joiner is “not an immediate danger to the health,safety,integrity or welfare of the horseracing industry.”
Izzy trejo, the executive director of the New Mexico racing commission, confirmed that the commission is awaiting the results of a second test sample. This second test will be crucial in determining the status of Joiner’s suspension and the future of his licence. “Pursuant to the New Mexico administrative codes, the commission’s required to run this matter through the adjudication process,” Trejo stated.
While acknowledging Joiner’s efforts to lift the suspension as “all well and fine,” Trejo did not provide a definitive timeline for a final decision. The case underscores th
