HRNSW today concluded the inquiry that was commenced on 18 January 2012 and continued on 12 and 19 March 2012, into a report received from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Racing Laboratory and confirmed by the ChemCentre in Western Australia, that arsenic had been detected in the pre race urine sample taken from RAGLAN NZ prior to the Sew Eurodrive Miracle Mile on 26 November 2011. RAGLAN NZ finished in sixth (6th) place in this event.
Further evidence and submissions was today taken from Mr Butt and evidence from swab attendant Ms S McMaster.
At today’s hearing, Trainer Mr Tim Butt was found guilty to a charge previously issued under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4), which states:
190. (1) A horse shall be presented for a race free of prohibited substances.
(2) If a horse is presented for a race otherwise than in accordance with sub rule (1) the trainer of the horse is guilty of an offence.
(4) An offence under sub rule (2) or sub rule (3) is committed regardless of the circumstances in which the prohibited substance came to be present in or on the horse.
The particulars of the charge being, that Trainer Mr Tim Butt did present and race RAGLAN NZ in race 8, the Sew Eurodrive Miracle Mile (1609 metres), at Menangle on 26 November 2011 when a pre-race urine sample taken from that horse upon analysis revealed the presence of the prohibited substance arsenic above the threshold as prescribed by the Australian Harness Racing Rules.
In considering penalty Stewards were cognisant of the following:
• The seriousness of the offence and the race in which RAGLAN NZ competed
• The nature of the prohibited substance detected
• Mr Butt’s disciplinary record which shows a previous breach in relation to prohibited substances
• Mr Butt’s personal circumstances
Mr Butt was disqualified for a period of six (6) months effective immediately.
Under the provisions of AHRR195 RAGLAN NZ was disqualified from sixth (6th) place in
Race 8, the Sew Eurodrive Miracle Mile (1609 metres) conducted at Menangle on 26 November 2011 and placing’s amended accordingly.
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: Regulatory Manager
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
