Panel: D Farquharson, K Wolsey, N Torpey
Racing Queensland Stewards today inquired into a report from Integrity Regulation Unit (IRU) Officers that SON OF LOPEZ, trained by Mick Grant, had received a stomach drench in contravention of Australian Harness Racing (AHR) Rule 193(1).
Background
A routine stable inspection was carried out at the stables of trainer Mick Grant by IRU officers on Wednesday, 5 November 2014. During the inspection Mr Grant was requested to produce his treatment log book. Upon perusal by IRU officers, it was established that an entry had been recorded indicating SON OF LOPEZ had been stomach tubed on Tuesday 4 November. SON OF LOPEZ was engaged to race at Redcliffe 5 November however was subsequently scratched by Stewards.
At today’s inquiry, Mr Grant pleaded guilty to a charge pursuant to AHR Rule 193(1) which reads:
“A person shall not attempt to stomach tube or stomach tube a horse nominated
for a race or event within 48 hours of the commencement of the race or event.”
After careful consideration Mr Grant was fined $4000.
In assessing penalty, Stewards gave consideration to the circumstances of the case, the lengthy period of time Mr Grant has held a licence, his cooperation throughout the investigation and Mr Grant’s personal situation, notwithstanding the seriousness of the offence and the importance for compliance to integrity based rules that enhance drug free racing. Stewards were also mindful that this was Mr Grant’s second breach of the rules concerning prohibited substances in approximately 6 months and that his husbandry practices may require review.
