Harness – Result of Steward Inquiry – Mr. Michael Reed – MACZAFFAIR
23 November, 2017
Harness
RWWA Stewards concluded an inquiry today into the withdrawal of MACZAFFAIR, trained by Mr Michael Reed, from Race 7 at Pinjarra on Monday 17th July 2017, following a report received from RWWA Stewards Compliance Officer Miss F Norman alleging a possible race day treatment of the mare.
The mare was withdrawn by Stewards that day, prior to the racing, after it had been presented with leg wraps/bandages to all four legs that upon examination were found to be emitting a strong odour as a result of a previously applied liniment. Mr Reed indicated at the time that he had applied the liniment in question the day prior, removed the bandages and washed the horse on the day of the race, before re-applying the same bandages.
Blood and urine samples taken from the mare had been reported as free of prohibited substances by the Chem Centre WA. The leg/wraps bandages seized on the day were also reported by the Chem Centre as being free of prohibited substances with no substances detected.
Evidence was heard from:
- RWWA Compliance Officer, Miss F. Norman
- RWWA Senior Investigator, Mr G Johnson
- Acting Team Leader Chem Centre, Ms K Wilson
- RWWA Industry Veterinarian Dr. J. Medd
- Trainer Mr M. Reed
- Trainer/Reinsman Mr N Van Der Snoek who was employed by Mr Reed and had brought the mare on course
The evidence heard at the inquiry did not support a breach of the rules prohibiting race day administrations.
Mr Reed pleaded guilty to a charge under Rule 240 in relation to an improper act, with the particulars being that on the day of the race meeting in question, he did re-apply bandages to the fore legs of MACZAFFAIR which had been applied with Equinade Liniment the day prior which continued to emit a strong odour which in the opinion of the Stewards was improper.
After taking into account all the circumstances including Mr Reeds acknowledgement of the offence as evidenced by his plea of guilty and that his actions had led to the withdrawal of horse the Stewards imposed a fine of $500.