Greyhound Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Frank Lowry
On Tuesday 22 June, Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) Stewards concluded an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the implant of SUPRELORIN into the greyhound ASTON COOPERS on 8 January 2021.
The inquiry has been conducted over several sittings which included 11 March, 19 May and 16 June 2021.
Throughout the inquiry evidence was heard from T2 Trainer Mr F Lowry, Licenced Attendant Mr K Lowry, RWWA Industry Veterinarian Dr J Medd and Senior Steward Mr S Jones.
On 3 June 2021, Trainer Mr Frank Lowry was found guilty to a charge under R84A(4)(a) with the particulars being that on 8 January 2021, Mr Frank Lowry, a licensed person with RWWA, allowed to be administered a SUPRELORIN implant, containing the permanently banned substance DESLORELIN, which is a gonadotrophin releasing hormone, to the greyhound ASTON COOPERS.
After adjourning to consider penalty, Stewards have now completed their deliberations and have determined to impose a disqualification of six months, commencing 22 June 2021.
In consideration of penalty, Stewards were mindful of the following factors:
- Mr Lowry notified the Stewards once the implant had taken place
- That Mr Lowry was advised by a Veterinarian that the substance SUPRELORIN could be against the rules of racing
- Mr Lowry’s cooperation during the investigation and Inquiry
- Mr Lowry’s personal circumstances
- The strong need for both individual and general deterrence
- Mr Lowry’s unblemished record in the greyhound industry
- The seriousness of the offence.