Trainer Barocio Receives Suspension for Rule Violations
Librado Barocio, a prominent figure in horse training, is set to commence a 45-day suspension coupled with a significant fine of $3,750. This punitive action follows a discovery made on April 17, when an inspection of his barn revealed the presence of syringes, needles, and injectable substances. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) mandates that only licensed veterinarians are permitted to possess such items on barn premises, a rule that Barocio’s conduct contravened. This incident underscores the stringent regulations governing the integrity of horse racing and the consequences for non-compliance, even when the substances involved are not explicitly banned.
The formal order outlining Barocio’s suspension was issued on August 20 and publicly disclosed on Thursday via the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s official website. The decision confirms an earlier report from the Paulick Report, highlighting the broad dissemination of this development within the equestrian community. The suspension is slated to take effect this coming Sunday, marking a temporary halt to Barocio’s training activities.
During the investigation, Barocio acknowledged the presence of four syringes, an additional syringe equipped with a needle, a standalone hypodermic needle, and five vials of Polyglycan within his barn. While three of the Polyglycan vials were empty, one contained a partial amount, and another was full. Polyglycan is recognized as a joint lubricant, comprising hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfates, and glucosamine. It is crucial to note that Polyglycan and its components are not classified as banned or controlled substances under the regulations enforced by the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit. However, the core of the violation lies in the possession of the administration tools—syringes and needles—by a trainer rather than a licensed veterinary professional, which is a direct infringement of HISA rules.
Barocio’s career as a horse trainer spans back to 1999, though the majority of his financial successes have materialized within the last five years. His accomplishments include training two graded-stakes winners: Visually, who triumphed in the 2024 Senorita (G3), and Lovesick Blues, the victor of the 2025 Bing Crosby. In the current year, Barocio’s stable has achieved a record of 12 wins, 12 second-place finishes, and 7 third-place finishes from 67 starts, accumulating earnings totaling $480,440. Prior to the commencement of his suspension, he had two horses scheduled to compete at Del Mar this Saturday, reflecting his ongoing involvement in the sport despite the impending disciplinary action.
The imposed suspension and fine for Librado Barocio serve as a stark reminder of the uncompromising standards upheld by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. This event reinforces the importance of adhering to procedural rules regarding the handling of medical equipment in horse racing, even when the substances themselves are permissible. The regulatory bodies aim to maintain fairness and animal welfare, necessitating strict compliance from all participants in the industry.