Doping case: ‘B’ sample from Kevin McNab’s Clifton Pinot is positive

The “B” sample taken from Kevin McNab’s Burghley ride, Clifton Pinot, has tested positive for the banned tranquiliser reserpine.

Equestrian Australia (EA) made the announcement earlier this morning (Monday, 2 December) after receiving confirmation from the FEI.

It comes a few days after Kevin’s protégé, Jock Paget, learnt that his Burghley winner, Clifton Promise, had returned a positive B sample for the same substance.

Kevin and Jock will now face an FEI tribunal, probably early in the new year. They remain suspended from competition, pending the hearing.

Both horses are majority-owned by Frances Stead’s Clifton Eventers. She has stated that neither rider has “taken any actions with the intent of administering any prohibited substance”.

In a statement, Equestrian Australia said: “In accordance with FEI processes, Kevin must now provide a written explanation to the FEI.

“EA has spoken to Kevin who is now considering his options.

“EA treats any breaches of doping and medication control seriously and has fully adopted and endorsed the FEI and ASADA anti-doping policies and procedures in this regard.

“As the case is ongoing, Equestrian Australia cannot make any further comment at this time.”

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