Kentucky Considers Tightening Rules Further
“The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority’s decision last week to tighten drug rules for thoroughbreds may be just the first effort to clamp down harder on state medication practices. A state drug panel is also looking into revamping testing procedures, sanctions for drug violations, security at racetracks and medication research.” The panel is considering increased backstretch security and detention barns, among other things. (Courier-Journal)
A thought: I’ve been impressed by the quick movement of racing authorities in states such as New York, Kentucky, and California to implement stricter medication rules and drug-testing policies, but I’ve been wondering — what’s Massachusetts doing? Current rules allow for bleeder medications and one anti-inflammatory drug to be used on racedays. Is the state racing commission considering adopting the rules developed by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium, which allow for bleeder meds only? Is there any kind of milkshake testing program in development? What kind of security measures will there be Suffolk Down’s big race, the Massachusetts Handicap? I’ve tried to contact the commission with these questions and haven’t received a response. I’ll be curious to see if there are any changes when the meet opens in April.
Related: Sherry Ross says Kentucky isn’t going far enough to ensure racing’s integrity. “You would think that Kentucky would be at the head of the line to outlaw illegal drug use or other performance-enhancing substances in thoroughbred racing. You would be wrong.” (New York Daily News)
