$400 Fine Only For Mick Player’s Procaine Positive Swab
Greyhound Racing NSW Stewards on Friday 28 October conducted an inquiry into the analyst's reports that the urine sample taken from Heart Of Barb after that greyhound won Race 2, at the Dapto meeting on Thursday 18 August 2011, had been analysed and found to contain the prohibited substance Procaine.
Evidence was taken today from trainer Mr Michael Player, meat supplier Mrs Rebecca Pace, veterinary surgeons Dr E Humphries and Dr B Daniel, former GRNSW Integrity Officer Mr Steve Howard, Racing NSW Senior Veterinarian Dr C Suann, ARFL Science Manager, Dr Adam Cawley and RASL Victoria Deputy Laboratory Director David Batty. Written evidence was tendered from the ARFL and Racing Analytical Services.
Mr Player also tendered written evidence and several references. Leave was granted under GAR 90 (5) for Mr Player to be assisted by fellow trainer Mr Roy White.
Mr Player was subsequently found guilty of a charge under GAR 83 (2) (a) in that he presented Heart Of Barb for the race in question other than free of any prohibited substance in that the urine sample taken from the greyhound was found to contain the prohibited substance procaine.
Mr Player was fined $400. In determining penalty Stewards took into account Mr Player's not guilty plea, the nature of the substance involved and previous penalties in relation to the presentation of greyhounds with this substance, his previously unblemished record in relation to a breach of the prohibited substance rules, his personal circumstances and the contents of the references supplied.
No evidence of significant support for Heart Of Barb was recorded.
Under GAR 83 (4) Heart Of Barb was disqualified from the event and the placings amended accordingly.