Weekly Rulings: Feb. 19-25

Outrider suspended, trainers penalized for medication violations

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Thoroughbred Daily News (TDN) has reported on the latest rulings from the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) and the Horseracing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU) for the week of February 19-25, 2026. The rulings include a 90-day suspension and $2,500 fine for outrider Sydney Fried, as well as several medication violations and penalties for various trainers across the country.

Why it matters

These rulings highlight the ongoing efforts by HISA and HIWU to enforce medication rules and maintain integrity in the sport of horse racing. The suspension of an outrider for refusing to cooperate with investigators also raises questions about the challenges of implementing the new regulations at racetracks.

The details

According to the report, outrider Sydney Fried was suspended for 90 days and fined $2,500 for refusing to allow HIWU investigators access to a pocket of her bag during a barn search, citing concerns about marijuana possession. Several trainers were also penalized for medication violations, including the presence of substances like Gabapentin, Flunixin, Methylprednisolone, Dexamethasone, Tramadol, and Acepromazine in post-race samples. The penalties ranged from disqualifications, fines, and suspensions.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Sydney Fried

A registered outrider who was suspended for 90 days and fined $2,500 for refusing to allow HIWU investigators access to a pocket of her bag during a barn search.

Osvaldo Ocasio

A trainer whose barn was searched by HIWU investigators, but he has never been sanctioned for an offense under HISA and has no pending cases.

Alexa Ravit

A HIWU spokesperson who provided additional background on Fried's registration status as an outrider.

Benjamin Feliciano Jr.

A trainer who received a 7-day suspension, disqualification, fine, and penalty points for a medication violation involving Gabapentin.

Alexis Leon

A trainer who received a disqualification, fine, and penalty points for a medication violation involving Flunixin.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.