Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) today concluded an inquiry into a report received from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory that plasma Total Carbon Dioxide (TCO2) above the prescribed threshold was detected in a pre-race blood sample taken from IHITTHEGROUNDRUNNING NZ prior to race 8, The Garrards Horse and Hound Pace (1609 metres) conducted at Tabcorp Park Menangle on Friday 9 January 2015.
The “B” sample was confirmed by the Racing Science Centre in Queensland.
Mr Gallagher had previously pleaded not guilty to a charge pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule 190 (1), (2) and (4) in that he did present IHITTHEGROUNDRUNNING NZ to race at Menangle on 9 January 2015, not free of a prohibited substance.
Mr Gallagher was found guilty in respect of the charge under Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4) and was disqualified for 25 years to commence from 15 January 2015, the date upon which he was stood down. In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following;
This was Mr Gallagher’s 6th offence for Prohibited Substance offences;
The level of 38.6 mmol/L detected;
Mr Gallagher’s licence history and other personal subjective facts.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, IHITTHEGROUNDRUNNING 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: Chief Operating Officer
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
