HARNESS Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an inquiry yesterday into reports received from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) that synephrine had been detected in post-race urine samples obtained from the following horses:
The ‘B’ samples were confirmed by Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) in Victoria.
Ms Wilkins appeared at the inquiry and provided evidence of her husbandry practices.
Evidence including the Reports of Analysis were presented, as well as analytical reports in relation to teff grass hay obtained from Ms Wilkins’ stable and plant samples from the Menangle Park Training Centre.
HRNSW Regulatory veterinarian, Dr Martin Wainscott also provided evidence to the inquiry.
Ms Wilkins pleaded guilty to two (2) charges issued pursuant to Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4) for presenting FUTURE STRIDE and BACKINTHEGAME to race not free of a prohibited substance, being synephrine.
In respect of those charges, Stewards recorded a conviction, however, did not impose a penalty on Ms Wilkins as they were satisfied that the detection of synephrine had resulted from environmental contamination.
In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
-
Ms Wilkins’ first Prohibited Substance offences;
-
Analytical reports;
-
Environmental contamination;
-
Ms Wilkins’ licence history and other personal subjective facts.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, FUTURE STRIDE and BACKINTHEGAME were disqualified from the abovementioned races.
Ms Wilkins was advised of her 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
