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Anabolic steroid policy on course for March
“We are naturally pleased to have reached consensus with all parties regarding the outstanding issues."
Clarification and consensus reached with key stakeholders

An enhanced, zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of anabolic steroids in horseracing is on course for March 2, 2015 the British Horseracing Authority has announced.

The announcement follows clarification and consensus being reached with the National Trainers Federation (NTF), Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (TBA), and the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) on certain elements relating to the revised policy.  

These issues led to a short delay in the policy's introduction, from January to March, and included the definition of "responsible person" - ie. the individual with the responsibility for ensuring that a horse is not administered with an anabolic steroid.

Jamie Stier, Director of Raceday Operations and Regulation for BHA, said: “The implementation of an entirely new and far reaching set of anti-doping Rules has been a complex process. We thank the ROA, NTF and TBA for their input throughout this process and their support for the principles behind the enhanced policy and the decision to delay the implementation.

“We are naturally pleased to have reached consensus with all parties regarding the outstanding issues and, while it was disappointing not to implement the policy on January 1, it was certainly the right decision not to rush the introduction of the Rules until consensus was reached.”

The policy aims to ensure that British Racing remains at the helm of tackling an issue that ranks amongst the biggest threats faced by all international sports.

Key elements of the policy include: that a racehorse must never be administered with an anabolic steroid at any time from birth to retirement; greater powers for BHA in terms of access for testing registered horses; the requirement for horses to be registered from a younger age, and for BHA to be aware of their whereabouts at all times; a more stringent 14 months stand-down period for horses found to have been administered with anabolic steroids; and greater controls on horses running in Great Britain from international jurisdictions.

BHA say that they will be releasing further details regarding the implementation of new rules ahead of the implementation date.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.