Ont. positives investigated

The Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) has launched a detailed investigation into 20 positive tests at five Ontario racetracks in late January and early February. The post-race tests were conducted under the auspices of the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency's (CPMA) Drug Control Program. The number of positives suggest some individuals continue to doubt the ORC's commitment to medication control.

The positive tests for the banned substance torsemide were reported during this period, and involved 15 individuals. Torsemide, a diuretic, is a Class III drug.

A panel of three judges has been assembled to hear all cases. Decisions will be released immediately upon the conclusion of their hearings. To protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure that due process is followed, the names of the individuals and additional incident details will be released when the decisions are handed down.

"Through its support of the Equine Medication Control and Drug Task Force, the horse racing community is clearly behind the efforts of the ORC and the CPMA to reinforce the message that the acquisition, possession and administration of illegal and non-therapeutic drugs will not be tolerated," says ORC executive director John Blakney.

"The pattern of testing, investigations, punishments and penalties will continue. As stated numerous times in these Notices, the reputation of horse racing in Ontario and the financial stability of the industry are on the line." (ORC)

« Back