John Norden Fined $500 For Procaine Positive In Victorian Greyhounds
Following advice from the Racing Analytical Services Laboratory, the Stewards of Greyhound Racing Victoria conducted an investigation into the results of a pre-race urine sample taken from the greyhound ‘Linden King' at the Warragul GRC meeting on 1 September, 2011.
During the investigation, Stewards heard evidence from registered Trainer Mr. John Norden and received written statements from Dr. John Vine (Racing Analytical Services Laboratory) and Dr.Alistair Smith (Sandown Veterinary Clinic).
After considering the evidence, Stewards charged Mr. Norden with breach of Greyhounds Australasia Rule 83(2) and (3) in that he did fail to present the greyhound ‘Linden King' free of any substance for an event at the Warragul GRC meeting on 1 September 2011, given the pre-race urine sample taken from the greyhound indicated the presence of the prohibited substance ‘Procaine'.
Under Rule 47.1 of the Greyhound Racing Victoria Local Rules this constituted a Serious Offence. As a result, on Wednesday, 21st December, 2011, this matter was heard before the Racing Appeals & Disciplinary Board in the first instance under Greyhound Racing Victoria Local Rule 47.3 and Sections 83C(b) and 83M of the Racing Act.
Mr. John Norden represented himself at the RADB Hearing and one other licensed person gave a character reference.
Mr. Glenn Fish (GRV Chief Steward) represented the Stewards Panel.
Mr. Norden pleaded not guilty to the charge.
After hearing all the evidence tendered, the RADB found Mr. Norden guilty as charged and fined him the sum of $500 (to be wholly suspended for a 12 month period pending no further breaches of a similar offence).
Acting under GAR83(5), the RADB also disqualified ‘Linden King' from Race 6 at the Warragul GRC meeting held on 1 September, 2011 and amended the placings accordingly.