Harness Racing NSW concluded an inquiry today into a report received from the Australian Government National Measurement Institute that cobalt above the threshold was detected in a post race urine sample taken from CAPTAIN COONEY following its win in race 6, the Karas Smash Repairs Pace (1609 metres) conducted at Menangle on 12 May 2014.
The “B” sample and associated control sample were confirmed by the ChemCentre in Western Australia.
Mr Kelly appeared at the inquiry and made an application to amend his plea in respect of the charge under Australian Harness Racing Rule 190 (1), (2) and (4). That application was granted and Mr Kelly entered a guilty plea in relation to that offence.
Mr Kelly maintained his not guilty plea in respect of Australian Harness Racing Rule 194 regarding Testosterone Propionate being located in his stable premises during a stable inspection.
Mr Kelly was subsequently found guilty of both offences. Mr Kelly was disqualified for a period of 2 years in respect of the charge under Rule 190 (1), (2) & (4) to commence from 31 July 2014, the date upon which he was stood down. In relation to the charge under Rule 194, Mr Kelly was fined $500 for that offence. In considering penalty, Stewards were mindful of the nature of the substances, the level of cobalt detected (300 ug/L), the pleas entered and personal subjective facts.
Acting under the provisions of Rule 195, CAPTAIN COONEY was disqualified from the abovementioned race.
Harness Racing NSW (HRNSW) is the controlling body for harness racing in New South Wales with responsibility for commercial and regulatory management of the industry including 31 racing clubs across the State. HRNSW is headed by an industry-appointed Board of Directors and is independent of Government.
To arrange an interview or for further information please contact:
Name: Reid Sanders
Position: Manager - Integrity
Phone: (02) 9722 6600
Email: rsanders@hrnsw.com.au
