The Referrals Committee, Sean Barry (in the Chair), Philip McLernon and P.J.A. O’Connor, met in the Turf Club Office, The Curragh, Co. Kildare, on Wednesday, 5th July, 2017, to consider a report from BHP Laboratories in Limerick which stated that the biological fluid sample taken from “Breaking Ground” following that horse’s win in the 5-y-o & upwards Adjacent Maiden Race at Kilworth & Araglen (H) Point to Point on 12th March, 2017, was found to contain caffeine, which under Rule 20 (v) and Regulation R14 is a Prohibited Substance.

The Committee considered evidence from Edmond Kent, handler and Dr. Lynn Hillyer, Turf Club Chief Veterinary Officer. 

In her evidence Dr. Hillyer stated that Andrew Tyrrell, Turf Club Veterinary Officer, had conducted an examination of Mr. Kent’s premises prior to today’s hearing and had noted that a medicines register was maintained but did not show an administration of any medication which contained caffeine to the horse in question.  She explained that caffeine was a prohibited substance and a stimulant contained in numerous commonly used drinks, cold remedies and some specific equine remedies.  Feedstuff was another possible source of contamination.

In his evidence Edmond Kent could not account as to how the substance came to be in the horse’s system and stated he had meticulously maintained the medicines register for all horses under his care as evidenced by the findings of Andrew Tyrrell, Turf Club Veterinary Officer.  He suggested that cross contamination of feedstuff or liquids was the only other possible option he could offer.

Having considered the evidence the Committee were satisfied that Edmond Kent was in breach of Rule 96 and taking all circumstances into account in this instance waived the fine.  They were satisfied with the veracity of his evidence and stressed that responsibility rested with him to ensure that he complied with the provisions of Regulation R14.  The Committee disqualified Breaking Ground from first place and ordered the records be amended to read as follows:-

First:  Tadage,
Second: Tippinawaynow,
Third:  Esthers Present.

The case was presented to the Committee by Cliodhna Guy, Turf Club Head of Legal & Compliance.