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May 1, 2006, 06:03 PM EDT
By David McArthur

(LOUISVILLE) -- A nationwide boycott staged by immigrants across the country Monday hit close to home for several Louisville businesses, including Churchill Downs. Many owners and trainers rely on immigrants workers, and as WAVE 3's David McArthur reports, the boycott left some short handed.

Some of the hundreds who attended Louisville's rally were missed on the backside at Churchill Downs.

Four grooms were no-shows at Paul McGee's barn. McGee says he had heard that a larger boycott was planned, but with the Kentucky Derby a few days away, only a handful walked out.

While he's not pleased, McGee says he'll let the grooms who missed work return with no penalty, but they won't be paid for Monday.

"I can understand they are doing what they are doing, but I'm just trying to deal with it the best I can and do what I have to do."

Some of the immigrant workers we talked to who did show up on the backside Monday told us they wanted to go to the rally, but were afraid of losing their job.

Most of the immigrants who work on the backside are in the country on work Visas. The HBPA says they advertise locally to hire grooms and hot-walkers, but get few applicants other than those from a very eager Hispanic workforce.

Online Reporter: David McArthur

Online Producer: Michael Dever