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Friday 24 November 2017

Racing NSW Offices, Sydney

Stewards: T J Vassallo (Chairman), P C Dingwall & R W Livingstone

Racing NSW Stewards today conducted an inquiry into the analysts finding of Frusemide in a blood sample obtained from the racehorse Ocean Express prior to that gelding barrier trialling in Heat 3 of the Official Barrier Trials at Rosehill Gardens on Tuesday 3 October 2017 for the purpose of obtaining a permit to start in a race.

Evidence was taken from licensed trainer Mr Tim Martin, Racing NSW Official Veterinarian Dr Tania Selig and ARFL Science Manager Dr Adam Cawley.

Mr Martin pleaded guilty to a charge under AR177A in that he did bring Ocean Express to Rosehill Gardens racecourse on Tuesday 3 October 2017 for the purpose of obtaining a permit to start in a race and the prohibited substance Frusemide was detected in a blood sample taken from the gelding prior to the trial and:

1. Frusemide is a prohibited substance pursuant to AR178B(1) as it has direct actions and or effects on the uro-genital system; and
2. Frusemide is a prohibited substance pursuant to AR178B(2) as it is categorised as a diuretic.

After considering all matters relative to penalty Mr Martin was fined $3000.

In considering penalty, Stewards were cognisant of Mr Martin’s guilty plea and forthright evidence during the inquiry however were mindful of Mr Martin’s record of previous breaches similar in nature to that of this offence.

Stewards nonetheless consider the offence to be of a serious nature given the possible safety and welfare outcomes involved and therefore issued the penalty to send a message to both the individual trainer to ensure that in the future this type of conduct is not repeated and to indicate the response of the racing community in general to matters of safety and horse welfare.

Mr Martin was advised of his right of appeal.

Troy Vassallo

Stipendiary Steward