Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) yesterday concluded the inquiry into the report from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Laboratory (HKJC) that darbepoetin alpha (DPO) had been detected in a pre race blood sample taken from COURAGEOUS KIWI NZ prior to it competing and finishing unplaced in Race 6, the Bohemia Crystal Free for All (2300m) at Menangle on Saturday 26 November 2011.
The presence of DPO in the blood sample has been confirmed by the HFL Sport Science Laboratory in England.
Mr Shannon Wonson had previously pleaded guilty to the charge issued against him on 16 April 2012 under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4), in that as the registered trainer of COURAGEOUS KIWI NZ he did present and race that horse in Race 6 the Bohemia Crystal Free For All (Group 2) 2300 metres at Menangle on Saturday 26 November 2011 when a pre-race blood sample taken from that gelding upon analysis reported the presence of the prohibited substance darbepoetin alpha.
In consideration of penalty, the Stewards took into account the following:
• Mr Wonson’s guilty plea
• The seriousness of this matter
• The nature of the prohibited substance detected – DPO being a synthetic form of EPO
• DPO has no legitimate veterinary use in racing
• The damage done to the integrity of Harness racing
• Mr Wonson’s personal circumstances.
Mr Wonson was disqualified for a period of three (3) years effective immediately. The Stewards ordered that the disqualification be back dated to 15 March 2012 when Mr Wonson’s licence to train was suspended pending the outcome of this inquiry. Consequently, Mr Wonson’s disqualification will expire at midnight 15 March 2015.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 31 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
Name: Reid Sanders
Position: Regulatory Manager
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
