Champion trainer Pesi Shroff is seeking legal redress against the one-month suspension imposed on him by the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC). Shroff yesterday filed a petition against the RWITC decision in a city civil court in Mumbai.

The punishment was awarded by the RWITC stewards more than a month ago and was confirmed last week by the club's board of appeal. Shroff earned the suspension because Eloise, a filly trained by him who participated in the Indian 1000 Guineas run at Mahalaxmi in December last year, had tested positive for banned substance boldenone.

"Yes, I have challenged the club's decision," Pesi Shorff told MiD DAY, "I am innocent, and I think I did not get
justice." Shroff, however refused to comment further citing the fact that the matter was now sub-judice.

Vivek Jain, chairman of RWITC and the man who headed the stewards' body that handed out the punishment to Shroff, said, "It's an unfortunate development. He (Shroff) was held responsible for vicarious liability, and was given a very light sentence under the circumstances." He added, "the club's lawyers will file their response in the case."