CBD Positive Leads to Von Hemel Suspension

Trainer Kelly Von Hemel has been suspended for seven days and fined $1,000 after one of his horses tested positive for cannabidiol (CBD). The Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit, the enforcement arm of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, posted the case resolution as a controlled medication finding Nov. 14. The case is listed as resolved following an admission of the rule violation and acceptance of the consequences. Those consequences also include a disqualification of RPM Thoroughbreds homebred Jackie Sparrow from her runner-up finish in an Aug. 25 maiden special weight at Prairie Meadows. The 5 1/2-furlong race was for Iowa-bred juvenile fillies. Von Hemel also was assigned two penalty points. His suspension is scheduled to begin Nov. 15.