The saga surrounding the 2018 GI Santa Anita Derby concludes with the formal redistribution of its $1-million purse, as reported by Daily Racing Form. Justify, the undefeated Triple Crown winner, clinched the victory in the race but later faced scrutiny after testing positive for scopolamine.

Owner Mick Ruis of second-place finisher Bolt d'Oro persisted in seeking a reversal of the results, culminating in a legal battle. Ruis claimed victory in December, leading to a court order for the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) to disqualify Justify, redistribute the purse, and compensate Ruis with $300,000.

The ownership group of Justify, comprising China Horse Club International Ltd., Head of Plains Partners, Starlight Racing, and Winstar Farm, must forfeit the $585,000 first-place prize money. Additionally, trainer Bob Baffert and jockey Mike Smith are required to return their 10% share of the winnings by Apr. 29.

Justify's race record will be adjusted from six-for-six to five wins from six races. The order was issued by California stewards Ron Church, John Herbuveaux, and Kim Sawyer. Justify, now a successful sire at Coolmore America, faces a modified legacy as his record undergoes revision.

Image extraction Santa Anita