Maximum Security team's case against Kentucky Derby demotion dismissed by judge

The legal action taken by connections of Maximum Security against racing officials after the colt's demotion in the Kentucky Derby has been dismissed by a federal judge.

Trained by Jason Servis for breeders Gary and May West, Maximum Security made all in North America's most prestigious race, but was deemed to have caused interference and was placed 17th, with victory going to Country House.

The Wests were floored by the decision but an appeal was denied by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC). A lawsuit was then filed against Churchill Downs stewards and the KHRC, but it was dismissed by judge Karen Caldwell on Friday.

"Kentucky's regulations make clear that the disqualification is not subject to judicial review," Caldwell wrote in a 29-page document.

It is unknown if the Wests intend to contest that verdict. The case would in effect be closed if they chose not to.

A son of New Year's Day, Maximum Security rebounded by winning the Haskell Invitational – New Jersey's most important race – and was last seen netting a Grade 3 handicap at Belmont Park.

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