Greyhound – Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Ben Abercrombie – AYSUM BLACK
Greyhound – Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Ben Abercrombie – AYSUM BLACK
RWWA Stewards have concluded deliberations with respect to penalty following the Stewards inquiry conducted on Tuesday 22 May 2018 where Greyhound Trainer Mr. B Abercrombie was found guilty to a charge under RWWA Rule of Greyhound Racing 83 (2) (a) where the particulars of the charge were that as the trainer he nominated and presented AYSUM BLACK to compete in Race 6 at Mandurah on 1 March 2018 where it finished first not free of the prohibited substance caffeine.
At the inquiry evidence was heard from RWWA Industry Veterinarian Dr. J. Medd, Chem Centre Analyst Ms K. Wilson, RWWA Senior Investigative Steward Mr P. Criddle and Mr Abercrombie.
In considering the appropriate penalty the Stewards took into account;
• Mr Abercrombie’s personal circumstances, length and depth of involvement in greyhound racing and that greyhound racing was his livelihood
• That the level of caffeine detected was reported as high
• The nature of the substance, in that Caffeine is classified as a stimulant under the Rules of Racing and was reported to be present at a high level
• The absence of accepted explanation for the presence of caffeine and Mr Abercrombie’s strong denials as to any knowledge for the reason of its detection
• Previous penalties issued with respect to this substance
• The need for deterrence both general and specific.
After considering submissions with respect to penalty the Stewards have determined to impose a disqualification of nine (9) months effective immediately.
Further pursuant to Rule 83 (4) AYSUM BLACK was disqualified from the race in question with the placings amended accordingly with commensurate implications for stake money to be applied.
The direction imposed under Rule 92 (5)(a) preventing AYSUM BLACK from being nominated for an event now ceases to apply and it is free to be nominated and compete in races.
Media Contact:
Denis Borovica – General Manager Racing Integrity
Ph: 9445 5427
denis.borovica@rwwa.com.au