Five Years for 'Paper Training'

Trainer Nevada Litfin has been handed a five-year suspension and a $2,500 fine by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) for engaging in "paper training" during a previous suspension. Litfin admitted to continuing his involvement in horse training and management despite his ineligibility from August 23 to January 21 due to medication violations.

HISA documents reveal that Litfin continued to communicate with owners, conduct training activities, and engage in financial transactions related to horse racing during his suspension. As part of the resolution, Litfin waived his right to a hearing and agreed to the terms of the suspension.

Groom Heather Davis and trainer Briannah McDaniel were also suspended for their roles in assisting Litfin. Davis received a three-year suspension, while McDaniel was suspended for 45 days due to her substantial cooperation with the investigation. McDaniel admitted to acting as Litfin's paper trainer during his suspension.

Litfin had been active in running horses in Louisiana during his suspension, exploiting the exemption from HISA regulations currently in place in Louisiana and West Virginia due to court rulings. McDaniel's suspension runs from June 28 to August 12, with her most recent racing activities taking place at Canterbury Park.