Three Month Disqualification For Bendigo Greyhounds Diclofenac And Theophylline Positive Swab
Following advice from the Racing Analytical Services Laboratory, the Stewards of Greyhound Racing Victoria conducted an investigation into the results of a post-race urine sample taken from the greyhound Rodale at the Bendigo Greyhound Racing Club meeting on the 7 May 2012.
During the investigation, Stewards heard evidence from registered Trainer Mr. Jason Tolson and received written statements from Dr. John Vine (Racing Analytical Services Laboratory) and Dr. Alastair Smith (Sandown Veterinary Clinic).
After considering the evidence, Stewards charged Mr. Tolson with breach of GAR83 (2) and (3) in that he did fail to present the greyhound Rodale free of any prohibited substance for an event at the Bendigo Greyhound Racing Club meeting on the 7 May 2012, given the post-race urine sample taken from the greyhound indicated the presence of the prohibited substances Diclofenac and Theophylline.
Diclofenac in a non steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) most commonly present in the human arthritis preparation, Voltaren.
Theophylline is a known metabolites of Caffeine in the greyhoud.
Under Rule 47.1 of the Greyhound Racing Victoria Local Rules this constitutes a Serious Offence. As a result, on the 12th September 2012, this matter was heard by 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. Jason Tolson represented himself at the RADB hearing.
Mr. Glen Fish (GRV Chief Steward) represented the Stewards Panel.
Mr. Tolson pleaded guilty to the charge.
After hearing all the evidence tendered, the RADB found Mr. Tolson guilty as charged and suspended his licence for 3 months effective from the 12th September 2012.
Acting under GAR 83(4), the RADB also disqualified ‘Rodale' from Race 4 at the Bendigo Greyhound Racing Club meeting held on Monday the 7th May 2012.