Trainer Stood Down – Cobalt Irregularity

Harness Racing NSW yesterday suspended the licence of trainer, Ms Mary-Jane Mifsud, pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 183.

HRNSW has taken these measures after receiving a report from the Australian Government National Measurement Institute that Cobalt above the threshold was detected in a post race urine sample taken from MISTER BELLISIMO following its win in race 6, the CONWAY PRINTERS ENCOURAGEMENT STAKES (1770 metres) conducted at Albury on 10 July 2015.

The “B” sample and associated control sample have been confirmed by the ChemCentre in Western Australia.

HRNSW Stewards considered all available evidence at this time and determined that Rule 183 should be invoked based on the following factors:

1. The fact that two (2) certificates have been issued by approved drug testing laboratories confirming Cobalt has been detected above the threshold;
2. The level of the readings relative to the permissible threshold;
3. The extremely serious nature of the substance;
4. The absolute nature of AHRR 190 offences;
5. The likely penalty of a significant period of disqualification if a prohibited substance offence is proven;
6. The high unlikelihood that AHRR 256 will have any application if a prohibited substance offence is proven;
7. The fact that HRNSW Policy in recent years has been to apply suspensions pursuant to AHRR 183 upon the receipt of one positive certificate;
8. The fact that this is not a finding of guilt and that this will militate against any perceived reputational damage as a result of a suspension;
9. The fact that an offence against AHRR 190 does not involve any aspect of intent and that this must further militate against any perceived reputational damage as a result of a suspension.

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.