Thoroughbred – stewards’ inquiry update – trainer Brock Lewthwaite
On Friday 8 July 2022, Racing and Wagering Western Australia stewards commenced the inquiry in relation to reports from the Chem Centre in Perth and Racing Analytical Services Ltd (Vic) that testosterone and boldenone was detected in the sample taken from Star Present (trained by B Lewthwaite) following it competing in and winning race four at Ascot on 9 April 2022.
After hearing evidence from Chem Centre Team Leader (Analyst) Dr N Beckett, RWWA Head of Veterinary Services Dr J Medd, receiving the report of RWWA Senior Investigative Steward Mr P Criddle and hearing submissions from trainer Mr Lewthwaite the stewards issued a charge under AR240 (2) with the particulars being:
- Mr Brock Lewthwaite was the licensed trainer of Star Present when it was brought to race at Ascot on 9 April 2022, where it raced in race four, with the prohibited substances testosterone and boldenone, being Prohibited List A substances, being detected in the sample taken from that mare.
The inquiry was subsequently adjourned by the stewards to Monday 11 July 2022, in order for Mr Lewthwaite to consider his position with respect to plea.
Subsequently at the request of Mr Lewthwaite, who indicated he was also seeking consent to be represented by legal counsel, a copy of the audio of proceedings was provided on 13 July 2022, with a copy of the transcript provided on 20 July 2022.
A response was received on behalf of Mr Lewthwaite from his counsel on 10 August 2022 requesting a further adjournment for a period of six weeks as he was in the process of seeking independent advice and acquiring additional factual and veterinary evidence.
The panel conducting the inquiry declined to grant an adjournment at that time and requested further submissions.
A hearing is to be conducted on Monday 5 September 2022 for the panel to hear such submissions as indicated.
Star Present remains excluded from competing in any race or trial until the conclusion of the inquiry or otherwise determined by the panel.