Harness Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Peter Anderson (ROCKIN IN CHELSEA)
Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) Stewards have concluded the inquiry into the report received from the ChemCentre in Perth that Flunixin had been detected in the sample, taken from ROCKIN IN CHELSEA at Byford on 19 July 2020, where it competed in and finished fourth place in Trial 2.
After hearing evidence from trainer Mr. Peter Anderson, ChemCentre Analyst Ms. N Beckett, RWWA Industry Veterinarian Dr. J Medd and RWWA Senior Investigator Mr. G Johnson, Mr Anderson pleaded guilty to the following charge.
Rule 190. Presentation free of prohibited substances
Particulars: That Mr P. Anderson was the trainer of ROCKIN IN CHELSEA when it was presented and competed in Official Trial Number 2 at Byford on 19 July 2020 where it finished fourth, not free of the prohibited substance Flunixin.
In considering penalty, Stewards took into account the following:
- The seriousness of the charge in relation to Rule 190.
- Mr Anderson’s plea of guilty and record in relation to prohibited substances which indicates that it has been 25-years since he was last issued a penalty in relation to prohibited substances.
- The prohibited substance flunixin is classed as an anti-inflammatory/therapeutic.
- The high levels detected.
- The need for deterrence in view of the potential welfare risks that arise when such substances are present during official trials.
- Past precedent since inception of RWWA in relation to this substance arising in trials where the majority have attracted fines.
Taking into account all matters the Stewards determined the appropriate penalty for this offence was a fine of $5,000.
Under the provisions of Rule 190, ROCKIN IN CHELSEA was disqualified from the trial in question.