Santa Anita Park stewards have ruled that trainer Carla Gaines was notified within the proper amount of time after one of her horses allegedly tested positive for clenbuterol at Hollywood Park last year.

The most recent ruling comes before a formal hearing at which Gaines could face fines and/or a suspension. The stewards made the ruling despite conceding that the California Horse Racing Board investigators made procedural errors in the way it notified Gaines.

Trainers are to be notified in writing within 18 days of a positive test. Gaines reportedly was notified by telephone on the 18th day after the positive and notified in writing on the 19th day.