HARNESS Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) has received advice from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) that benzoylecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester have been detected in the urine sample taken from DESTINY WARRIOR following its win in race 5, the DUBBO RSL CLUB FINAL (2120 metres) conducted at Dubbo on Wednesday February 22, 2017.
The “B” sample and associated control sample have been confirmed by Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) in Victoria.
Trainer Mr Nathan Turnbull was initially stood down by HRNSW Stewards on Tuesday April 18, 2017, pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 183.
Mr Turnbull appealed that decision before the NSW Racing Appeals Tribunal on Monday April 24, 2017. The appeal was upheld.
As a result, there are no current restrictions upon Mr Turnbull’s trainer or driver licences.
Mr Turnbull has not been charged with any breach of the Rules.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 183A, it has been determined that DESTINY WARRIOR, the horse subject of the certificate, shall not be nominated or compete in any race until the outcome of an inquiry or investigation.
HRNSW Stewards have commenced an investigation and have interviewed other involved persons.
HRNSW Stewards will continue to conduct an investigation into this sample result and an Inquiry will be scheduled in due course.
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 33 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by a Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
MICHAEL PRENTICE | INTEGRITY MANAGER
(02) 9722 6600 • mprentice@hrnsw.com.au
GRAHAM LOCH | CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS
(02) 9722 6600 • gloch@hrnsw.com.au
