Harness Racing NSW today inquired into a report received from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) that synephrine had been detected in the post race urine sample taken from WINDS OF CHANGE after it raced and won Race 7, the Total Fire Solutions Pace (2,030 metres) at Newcastle on 3 November 2012.
This finding has been confirmed by the Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) in Melbourne.
Evidence was taken from Mr R Potts the trainer of WINDS OF CHANGE and Dr Martin Wainscott HRNSW Regulatory Veterinarian.
Mr Potts pleaded guilty to a charge under AHRR 190 (1) (2) and (4) for presenting WINDS OF CHANGE to race at Newcastle on 3 November 2012 not free of the prohibited substance synephrine.
In considering penalty the following was taken into account, Mr Potts’s;
• Guilty plea
• Blemish free record over some 14 years
• Personal circumstances
• Circumstances of this case
Mr Potts was disqualified for a period of nine (9) months effective immediately.
Acting under AHRR 195 WINDS OF CHANGE was disqualified as the winner of Race 7, the Total Fire Solutions Pace (2,030 metres) and the placings amended to;
1. ELSU TWO (M A Callaghan)
2. SHAMROCK EAGLE (J G Proctor)
3. ANOTHER ACES (S Lindsay)
4. RAWHIDE SHANNON (D J Elder)
The embargo placed on WINDS OF CHANGE under the provisions of AHRR 183A Was lifted.
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: Manager Integrity
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
