Racehorse drug testing to be more stringent and targeted

Drug testing of racehorses will be more stringent and carried out with the help of increased intelligence gathering in the new year.

The British Horseracing Authority announced the overhaul of its testing procedures last week, hoping the new approach will “enhance the deterrent effect”.

Testing will be less predictable and more targeted. Racehorses will continue to be tested after races, but the number tested before racing will be increased, as will the amount of in-training testing.

BHA director of equine services Prof Tim Morris said: “This new approach will allow us to ensure a good spread of testing, while increasing unpredictability…We also want to be able to act quickly on intelligence received and deter the extremely small minority of people in our sport who might cheat.”

He added: “Horse racing does not tolerate a violation of the rules“.

The BHA is also planning to work more closely with trainers, vets and staff improve understanding of legitimate medication can be given out of racing.

Under British rules, no horse should have any substance in its system on the day of racing that might affect its performance.

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