Ohio to begin EPO testing

The Ohio State Racing Commission is expanding its drug testing to insure its protection of the integrity of horse racing in the State of Ohio. At its August 2006 meeting, the Commission announced it will step up the current drug testing being conducted by 25 percent. In addition to more frequent testing, the Commission will begin testing for a wider variety of drugs. Effective immediately, the Commission will be testing for EPO.

Also at the Commission meeting, the commissioners approved the purchase of blood/gas test equipment, known as radiometers, for each of the seven commercial racetracks. Several states, including Delaware, Indiana and Pennsylvania, test the blood prior to the horse racing. Chairman Barron and Commissioner Meeks have had the opportunity to talk with fellow members of the ARCI about this equipment. These states test all horses programmed to race that day, prior to each race.

Under the direction of Chairman Barron, the staff has been conducting blood/gas testing to determine the total carbon dioxide level in Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses at the seven commercial racetracks. This equipment will allow test results prior to the horses running in its race, thereby preventing horses over the threshold from participating. (Ohio State Racing Commission)

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