HARNESS Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an inquiry yesterday into a report received from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) that synephrine had been detected in post-race urine sample obtained from IDEAL LIFESTYLE following its win in Race 5 at Tabcorp Park Menangle on Tuesday 29 May, 2018.
The ‘B’ sample was confirmed by Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) in Victoria.
Mr Grimson appeared at the inquiry and provided evidence of his registered training establishment and husbandry practices.
Evidence including the Reports of Analysis were presented, as well as analytical reports in relation to teff grass hay obtained from Mr Grimson’s stable and plant samples from the Menangle Park Training Centre.
HRNSW Regulatory veterinarian, Dr Martin Wainscott also provided evidence to the inquiry.
Mr Grimson pleaded guilty to a charge issued pursuant to Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4) for presenting IDEAL LIFESTYLE to race not free of a prohibited substance, being synephrine.
In respect of that charge, Stewards recorded a conviction, however, did not impose a penalty on Mr Grimson as they were satisfied that the detection of synephrine had resulted from environmental contamination.
In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
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Mr Grimson’s first Prohibited Substance offence;
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Analytical reports;
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Environmental contamination;
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Mr Grimson’s licence history and other personal subjective facts.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, IDEAL LIFESTYLE was disqualified from the abovementioned race.
Mr Grimson was advised of his right to appeal this decision.
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
GRANT ADAMS | CHAIRMAN OF STEWARDS
(02) 9722 6600 • gadams@hrnsw.com.au