Harness Racing NSW conducted an inquiry yesterday into a report received from the Australian Government National Measurement Institute that Cobalt above the threshold was detected in a post race urine sample taken from ARTSU NZ following its win in race 4, the ATAC Marathon Pace (3110 metres) conducted at Tamworth on 1 September 2014.
The “B” sample and associated control sample were confirmed by the ChemCentre in Western Australia.
Mr Chapple appeared at the inquiry. Evidence including the Reports of Analysis and expert evidence from Harness Racing NSW Regulatory Veterinarian Dr Wainscott were presented. Evidence was also taken from Mr Chapple regarding the training of ARTSU NZ, his husbandry practices and compliance with the Australian Harness Racing Rules. The inquiry also heard evidence (via telephone) from Mr Ricky Thurlow regarding his husbandry practices and training of ARTSU NZ.
Mr Chapple pleaded guilty plea to a charge under Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4) for presenting his horse to race not free of a prohibited substance.
Mr Chapple was disqualified for a period of 2 ½ years to commence from 22 October 2014, the date upon which he was stood down. In considering penalty, Stewards were mindful of the nature of the substance and the level detected (250ug/L), the circumstances leading up to the race, the guilty plea entered and personal subjective facts including personal and financial hardship.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, ARTSU NZ was disqualified from the abovementioned race.
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: Manager - Integrity
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
