Disciplinary Panel results of fast-tracked cases (P. Robson, P. Bowen. D. Weston)

Published 2020/08/10

Pauline Robson

£1,000 fine - breach of Rule (G)2.1 of the Rules of Racing in that on 13 January 2019 MARTILA (FR) ran in The Kristofferson Carpets and Flooring Handicap Hurdle (Class 2) at Kelso racecourse finishing first. Following the race MARTILA (FR) was selected for post-race sampling. On 6 February 2019 the BHA were informed that the sample tested positive for Altrenogest, a prohibited substance.

The Chairman gave consideration to the background and the explanation that MARTILA (FR) had been administered Altrenogest on two occasions, 25 December 2018 and 1 January 2019 and that the administration on 1 January 2019 had been the likely source of the positive.

Additionally, under Rule (A)74.2 the Chairman directed that the horse was to be disqualified from the race and that any prize monies be returned if not already done so.

Peter Bowen

£150 fine - breach of Rule (D)27 of the Rules of Racing in that when BUCKS DREAM (IRE) ran at Market Rasen on 10 July 2020 he had not notified the Racing Calendar Office that the horse had been gelded before the deadline as required. The Chairman noted that notification was given but not until the morning of the race.

David Weston

£290 fine - breach of Rule (D)30 of the Rules of Racing in that on 28 June 2020 ADMIRAL’S SUNSET ran at Windsor in The Follow at the Races On Twitter Handicap Stakes (Class 4) finishing ninth. The horse had been declared for the race at Windsor on 26 June 2020. Notification of the horse undergoing wind surgery in September 2019 was not made until 27 June 2020 after declarations.

Notes to Editors:

1. More information about the fast-track system can be found here. Fast-tracked cases are heard by the Judicial Panel Chairman, His Honour Brian Barker C.B.E. QC.

2. Altrenogest is a synthetic progestagen indicated for controlling the oestrus cycle of the mare. Altrenogest is a prohibited substance on raceday meaning it must not be in a horse’s system on raceday.

3. Due to the current situation and resulting difficulties arising from the corona virus, temporary changes have been made to how the Judicial Panel operates. Initial changes can be seen in a statement here issued on 1 April, with a further operational update issued on 1 June here.

Please note, the BHA Judicial Panel is an independent body which encompasses the Disciplinary Panel, Appeal Board and Licensing Committee. It receives administrative support from the BHA via the Judicial Panel Secretary.