RWWA Stewards today continued the inquiry into a report received from RWWA Principal Investigator Mr. P. O'Reilly concerning a package received by Harness Trainer/Driver Mr C. Hall on 14 June 2007.
On 13 August 2007 Mr C. Hall was charged under HRR194 for, on 14 June 2007 holding the drug darbepoietin without a prescription and which was capable of being administered to a horse. Mr Hall pleaded not guilty to the charge.
After consideration of the evidence and the charge Stewards found Mr C. Hall guilty as charged.
When considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
- The seriousness of the charge
- The nature of the drug (darbepoietin)
- The damage and the potential damage done to the integrity of Harness Racing
- Mr Hall's record which shows no prior offences in regards to this rule
- That any penalty needed to incorporate a deterrent factor
- Mr Hall's personal circumstances
Trainer/Driver Mr C. Hall was disqualified for a period of five (5) years effective immediately.
JOHN A. ZUCAL
RWWA Chairman of Stewards
For more information contact:
Racing and Wagering Western Australia
Stewards Division
70 Grandstand Road
Ascot WA 6104
Ph: (08) 9277 0777
