view raw text
BONAIRE RACED AS KELNOT Duplicate of Token-Overall Case Occurs at Churchill Downs — Exonerate Dan Lehan. LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 17.— An investigation by the stewards has disclosed the fact that the horse entered as Kelnot, which ran second in the fifth race on May 10, and again finished second in the first race May 15, was Bonaire, a four-year-old by Boniface, whereas Kelnot is a three-year-old by Chatterton. Both horses were shipped from Chicago in March to Dan Eehan, trained by their respective owners, Stephen R. Knott and Frank J. Kelly, Jr., an agreement as to their training by Lehan having previously been made by Paul Lang, agent for Frank Kelly, Jr. When the two horses were delivered to Lehan by the groom in charge, the former claims they were erroneously designated or identified by the latter, and that in consequence the horse Bonaire was entered and run by him as Kelnot. In his first start, Kelnots identification was unchallenged, but before going to the post in his second start, and while in the paddock, some doubt was expressed. The stewards thereupon questioned Lehan who affirmed positively that the horse was Kelnot, such being his belief at that time. C. C. Van Meter, who formerly trained both Kelnot and Bonaire, was called upon, and after full scrutiny he also stated that the horse was Kelnot. Rice Porter, the association docker, also confirmed the judgment of both Lehan and Van Meter. Upon such assurance or confirmation the horse was permitted to start. Subsequently and after reflection, both Van Meter and Porter indicated that they might have been mistaken and the investigation which followed determined that the horse was not Kelnot, but Bonaire. Dan Lehan is a trainer of more than thirty years experience and is of unimpeachable character. It being evident his error was due to misinformation or misplaced judgment and not to any wilful or evil intent, no punishment is reasonably applicable and none is imposed. The horse which ran as Kelnot having been improperly registered, entered and raced, is disqualified for both races and the second and third purse moneys such races reapportioned in accordance therewith. Signed The Stewards.
