Harness Stewards Inquiry – Trainer Mr Donald Wegner
RWWA Stewards have concluded an inquiry into reports received from the ChemCentre (WA) and Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) (Victoria) confirming the detection of the prohibited substance Dexamethasone in the urine sample taken from LADY LANI on 7 April 2020 after it competed in and finished third in Race 4 at Gloucester Park.
Evidence was taken from ChemCentre Analyst Ms E Cook, RWWA Senior Investigative Steward Mr P Criddle, RWWA Industry Veterinarian Dr J Medd and trainer Mr D Wegner.
Mr Wegner pleaded guilty to breaching HRR190 with the particulars of the charge being that he was the licensed trainer of LADY LANI when it was brought to race at Gloucester Park on 7 April 2020, where it raced in and finished third in Race 4 not free of the prohibited substance Dexamethasone.
When considering the question of penalty, Stewards considered, amongst other things;
- The importance of animals being presented for races free of prohibited substances in order to maintain a level playing field.
- Mr Wegner’s personal circumstances, including his many years of participation in the industry with this being his first offence under the provisions of this Rule, not having previously presented a horse in a race not free of a prohibited substance.
- His acknowledgement of the offence as evidenced by his plea of guilt.
- The absence of explanation for the presence of the substance at the reported level.
- The nature of the substance detected, that being of a therapeutic nature.
- Past penalties issued in relation to this substance.
Taking into account all matters the Stewards determined the appropriate penalty for this offence was a fine of $5,000.
Acting under the provisions of HRR195, LADY LANI was disqualified from the race in question and the Stewards directed that the placings be amended accordingly with commensurate implications for stake money.