The National Horseracing Authority confirms that at an Inquiry held in Durban on 14 August 2020, Trainer Mr M L Roberts was charged with a contravention of Rule 73.2.3. The particulars being that he was the trainer of the horse STATUTE, from which a specimen taken prior to the running of the 6th Race at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse on 20 June 2020, disclosed upon analysis the presence of Flunixin, a prohibited substance (classified as a class 4 substance in terms of the Guidelines).

The Board entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of Mr M L Roberts, however, he was found guilty as charged. After considering all the evidence in this matter, in particular that this was a second offence of this nature, the Board imposed a fine of R34 000. In addition, in terms of Rule 72.3.2, STATUTE is disqualified from the said race.

Mr Roberts has the right of appeal against the finding and the penalty imposed.

NHA