McInnes Suspended For 6 Months For Nandrolone Positive
Greyhound Racing NSW Stewards on Monday concluded an inquiry into analysts' reports of the finding of nandrolone and its metabolites 19 noreticholanolone and 19 norepiandrosterone in the urine sample taken from Makedonia after that bitch won Race 10, the Everybodys Hero Stake, 303 metres run at the Potts Park meeting on Saturday 18 May 2013.
The inquiry commenced on Friday 30 August 2013 and was adjourned to clarify evidence provided by the laboratories. Further evidence was taken this week from trainer Bruce McInnes, owner Mark Knowles and Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) Science Manager Dr Adam Cawley. Evidence had been taken previously from Racing Analytical Services Laboratory (RASL) Director David Batty. Written evidence was submitted from Racing NSW Head Veterinarian Dr Craig Suann and from both the ARFL and the RASL.
After considering the particular circumstances of the case Mr McInnes was subsequently found guilty of a charge under GAR 83 (2) (a) of having been responsible for the presentation of Makedonia for the race in question other than free of any prohibited substance in that the urine sample taken from Makedonia after the race was found to contain nandrolone and its metabolites.
Mr McInnes was subsequently suspended for a period of six months, to expire at midnight on 8 March 2013.
In considering penalty, Stewards took into account such factors as Mr McInnes' record of having not come under notice of Stewards for any offence in 27 years of registration as a trainer, a number of cleared samples in that period, the moderate level of substances reported in this sample, a lack of significant wagering support and his personal circumstances of being a hobby trainer with only two greyhounds in his care.
Also considered was the nature of the substance, which is considered to be a Category 3 substance in the prohibited substance rankings in NSW, a measure of general deterrence appropriate to this offence and the not guilty plea, which provided no discount in the penalty applied.
Under GAR 83 (4), Makedonia was disqualified from the race in question and the placings amended accordingly.