Harness Racing New South Wales (HRNSW) Stewards conducted an Inquiry today into a report received from the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) that Morphine and Oripavine were detected in the post-race urine sample taken from HIPSTER DUFUSS following its win in race 1, the HES WATCHING @ TIPPERARY EQUINE PACE (2270 metres) conducted at Wagga on Friday 21 January 2022.
The reserve portion and control solution were confirmed by Racing Analytical Services Limited in Victoria.
Mr Powderly appeared at the Inquiry and provided evidence in relation to his registered training establishment. Evidence from HRNSW Regulatory veterinarian and the Certificates of Analysis from ARFL and RASL were also presented to the Inquiry.
Mr Douglas Condon and Mr Stephen Condon, registered owners of the horse HIPSTER DUFUSS were also in attendance at the Inquiry.
Mr Powderly pleaded guilty to a charge issued pursuant to Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 190 (1), (2) & (4) for presenting HIPSTER DUFUSS to race not free of a prohibited substance.
In respect of that charge, Stewards determined that a conviction would be recorded, however, Stewards did not impose a penalty on Mr Powderly’s as they were satisfied that the detection of Morphine and Oripavine had resulted from environmental contamination.
In considering penalty Stewards were mindful of the following:
- Mr Powderly’s second Prohibited Substance offence;
- Prohibited substances involved;
- Circumstances involved in this matter;
- Mr Powderly’s licence history and other personal subjective facts.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, HIPSTER DUFUSS was disqualified from the abovementioned race.
Mr Powderly and the registered owners of the horse HIPSTER DUFUSS were advised of their right to appeal.
For further information contact:
HRNSW Integrity Department
(02) 9722 6655
