Racing Vic Stewards charge Luke Oliver for prohibited substance

[Wandering Eyes]

Luke Oliver after Spanish Tides won the Mia Kleer Hand Sanitiser Handicap at Moonee Valley Racecourse on July 30, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Reg Ryan/Racing Photos)

Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have charged trainer Luke Oliver following an inquiry into a prohibited substance detected in a post-race sample from the horse Justdoit.

This is the second tribunal hearing Luke Oliver has been involved in, with the first being with Hey Bella back in April 12.

The allegations relate to a breach of the Australian Rules of Racing (AR) involving the administration of banned substances.

The charge stems from Justdoit’s participation in Race 3 at the Donate to RDA Australia event at Flemington Racecourse on August 3, 2024.

The horse claimed victory in the event, but subsequent urine samples revealed the presence of methamphetamine, a stimulant listed under Division 1 of Part 2 of Schedule 1 (Prohibited List B) in the Rules of Racing.

The positive result was confirmed by Racing Analytical Services Limited and the Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory.

Methamphetamine is strictly prohibited in racing as it has no therapeutic value and contravenes AR 240(2), which holds trainers accountable for ensuring their horses are free from prohibited substances during competition.

RV Stewards emphasised that trainers are responsible for safeguarding their horses from exposure to substances outlined in Prohibited List A or B.

This responsibility includes maintaining strict controls to avoid accidental contamination or intentional administration.

The case has been referred to the Victorian Racing Tribunal (VRT), with a hearing date yet to be determined.

If found guilty, Oliver could face penalties, including fines or suspension.

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