Out of competition testing approved in Indiana

The Indiana Horse Racing Commission has promulgated a new regulation that allows for out of competition testing. The regulation was passed by the unanimous vote of the Commission at its public meeting on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at Hoosier Park in Anderson.

Under the new regulation the Commission may, without notice, take samples for testing of any racehorse participating in the Indiana racing program, stabled on or off the grounds.  This new initiative is designed to detect and deter the use of blood doping agents such as Epogen (EPO).  Absent extraordinary circumstances, the minimum penalty for a positive test is a ten (10) year suspension. 

The out of competition regulation is effective immediately.

In other business, the Commission passed a regulation banning toe grabs of a height greater than 4 millimeters on the front hooves of all thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses.

Both the out of competition and the toe grab regulations are consistent with the model rules adopted by the Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) at its convention in Jackson Hole in April 2007.

“The RCI, in working with industry stakeholders, has provided regulators with new model rules that can enhance the integrity of the sport and protect the safety and welfare of its participants”, stated Joe Gorajec, Executive Director.  “I am hopeful that these and other progressive RCI model rules will be universally adopted in the near future.”

The Commission thanked the Racing Medication & Testing Consortium and the Grayson-Jockey Club Foundation for working in concert with the RCI on these important initiatives.

The RCI model rule regarding the regulation of anabolic steroids will be considered at the Commission’s September 27, 2007 public meeting. (IHRC Release)

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