Horse trainer arrested on suspicion of DUI *

The Daily Racing Form reports that trainer Julio Canani was arrested in Sierra Madre Sunday on suspicion of DUI.

Canani’s horse  3-year-old The Pamplemousse, won Saturday and is considered a top 3-year-old contender with Kentucky Derby aspirations.

Art Wilson profiled Canani in a piece that discusses some of the trainer’s superstitions:

Ridden by veteran Alex Solis, whose son, Alex II, is part owner of the colt, The Pamplemousse went gate to wire as the 1-2 favorite to win the 1 1/8-mile race on Pro-Ride by six lengths in 1:47.86 – the fastest running of the Sham in its nine-year existence.

“Listen, time only counts to get out of jail,” colorful winning trainer Julio Canani said. “So whatever happens, slow track or fast track, it’s life.”

The Pamplemousse, who lost his first two starts last year before breaking his maiden in his first try around two turns at Hollywood Park on Dec. 14, has won three of five lifetime.

*Here’s what the Sierra Madre PD is saying about the arrest:

Canani, 70, was arrested for vehicle code violations, according to Sierra Madre police Capt. Larry Giannone.

“When officers made contact they further determined he was driving under the influence,” Giannone said.

Canani did not pass a field sobriety test that contained “standard exercises,” Giannone said.

The trainer was taken to the Pasadena City Jail, booked and released on $5,000 bail with a promise to appear on May 6.

The Kentucky Derby will be run on May 2, so that gives him plenty of time to get back to town.

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