Gray fined $100,000

The Ontario Racing Commission has issued a series of orders and rulings on Wednesday that confirm its commitment to a program of medication control good for the horse and vital to the industry. The director ordered the immediate suspension of the license of Todd Gray of Dundas, Ont., issued a proposed order to suspend his license for a period of 10 years and ordered a $100,000(C) fine.

In addition, testing confirmed the presence of erythropeietin/darbepoetin-alfa in blood samples taken from three horses trained by Gray at the relevant time. As a result, the following horses have been suspended from racing: Lasensa, Rair Earth, and My Wicked Willie. Gray has also been the programmed trainer for such notables as Devonshire Hanover and Jet Lag N at Mohawk.

Erythropeietin is commonly known as EPO. Darbepoetin-alfa is classed as a potent long-lasting form of EPO. It triggers the horse’s body to produce more red blood cells and is thought to improve performance by increasing the blood’s oxygen carrying capacity. However, EPO can cause liver damage and coagulation of the blood, which put the horse’s health at risk.

Except for a very few individuals, the horse racing industry conducts its business professionally with the utmost care for the horse. The future growth and vitality of the industry is dependent on all racing fans, as well as the general public, having full and complete confidence in the integrity of the sport. Consequently, sanctions are required for those who choose to undermine that confidence.

In May of this year, the Equine Medication Control and Drug Task Force was initiated. The participants agreed that decisive action was needed to respond to instances of acquisition, possession, and administration of illegal and non-therapeutic drugs. They also encouraged an increased focus on proactive research on drug testing as well as education and change of practice relevant to medication control.

Simply stated, medication control means only using medications or products that have a therapeutic value to the horse.

Such control measures are essential in order to maintain the health and well-being of the horse, the integrity of the industry, and the public confidence. (Ontario Racing Commjission)

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