NEW YORK — Larry Jones, the trainer of the late filly Eight Belles, says a recent failed drug test by one of his colts was sabotage.

The New York Times reported in Saturday's editions that Jones and breeder Jim Squires, both prominent critics of the use of drugs in horse racing, were notified early this week that Stones River had tested positive for illegal levels of clenbuterol, a bronchodilator that helps burn fat and promote muscle growth, after a race at Delaware Park this month.

Jones, the top trainer at Delaware Park, was the target of criticism after Eight Belles was euthanized on the track after finishing season in the Kentucky Derby. He has often called for limits on the use of steroids and medications in racing.

The Times reported Jones had never had a violation in 25 years as a trainer, according to the Racing Commissioners International database. Spires also has no violations on his record, the newspaper reported.

"I guess we're not the most popular people at Delaware," Jones told the Times. "I have gotten so much hate mail after Eight Belles. I've been on the public record against drugs forever, as has Jim. It looks pretty obvious to me that we've been targeted."

Congressional hearings were held this week on drug using in horse racing and members of Congress told industry leaders reforms were needed.