| A horse was
scratched moments before a race was started and subsequent to it being loaded into the
barriers after a pre-race swab irregularity at Caulfield today. Stewards ordered the withdrawal of Landdrost from the George A Davis
Super Vobis Handicap (1800m) after it returned an elevated bi-carb level.
The withdrawal was later than usual after stewards said the
Len Xuereb trained gelding arrived on track late. Trainers are required to have their
gallopers on course two hours before post time.
Racing Victoria Veterinarian Dr Paul O'Callaghan said a
blood sample was taken from Landdrost just 57 minutes before the race was scehduled to be
run.
A second sample was tested but the result had not been
received by stewards when the runners for the fourth race were ordered to the barriers.
"Just before the start of the race, after the field
had been loaded, Dr O'Callaghan rang the main stewards tower and advised the second sample
indicated that the levels were exceeded," today's head steward Terry Sharp said.
"Since then the levels have been verified," he
added.
Sharp continued to say that the situation would be resolved
at a further inquiry, which would be held at a date to be advised. |
