Harness Racing SA stewards today suspended the trainers licence of Mario Borg, pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 183.
This action was taken after receiving a report from Racing Analytical Services Ltd (RASL) that dexamethasone was detected in a urine sample taken from ITS BEDLAM after it competed in Race 8, Book a Xmas Night At Globe Derby Pace, at Globe Derby on 12 December 2016.
The ‘B’ sample was sent to the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory in Sydney and has been confirmed.
In making this decision, HRSA Stewards have considered all relevant information including submissions provided by Mr Borg as to why Rule 183 should not be invoked.
Stewards also took into account the following factors:
- that two Certificates from approved drug testing laboratories have been received which confirmed the presence of dexamethasone;
- the nature of the substance;
- the absolute nature of Rule 190 offences;
- the obligation of HRSA to protect the harness racing industry.
Mr Borg has not been charged with any offence and has been advised of his appeal rights against the imposition of Rule 183.
No date for the inquiry has been set.
Barbara Scott
Chair of Stewards
