Pennsylvania to test for CO2
For those of us watching the Belmont, we were a bit disappointed to see Uptowncharlybrown take 5th place. Even worse was when we found out that the steed had been disqualified because the weight pad had fallen out after the start, meaning the horse did not carry the requisite 126 pounds across the finish line. This mean forfeiture of the $30k purse that came with taking 5th place. Even more disappointing was the ‘grassroots’ nature of Uptowncharlybrown’s ownership. 59 separate individuals bought a share of the horse through Fantasy Lane Stables, and now, instead of restitution of the $30,000, they want the $20,000 entry fee waived by the NYRA.
Although an NYRA representative affixes the weight pads to each horse and jockey, it is ultimately up to the trainer to make sure that all equipment is in good order before the race starts. A hearing has not been scheduled at press time.
Starting July 15th, the Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission (PHRC) will begin testing for the abuse of ‘milkshake’ concoctions, which boost a horses stamina. There is a simple blood test, in which excess carbon dioxide indicates the use of a baking soda based stimulant. Tests may be conducted at random, with probable cause or at the discretion of racetrack stewards.
This is a huge step for the PHRC. Last year it searched a van that had circumstantial evidence of milkshake abuse, however they could not test the horses. This will set the standard for fair racing in the Commonwealth. First time offenders can expect a $1,500 fine, 30-60 day suspension and forfeiture of the purse. Pennsylvania is one of the last jurisdictions to adopt milkshake testing standards.
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