Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) stewards conducted an inquiry today into the report received from the ChemCentre in Perth that Stanozolol was detected in an out-of-competition blood sample taken from Ragazzo Mach NZ on Wednesday, 4 January 2023.
The inquiry heard evidence from:
- Dr Buddhika Dorakumbura – Acting Team Leader ChemCentre
- Dr Judith Medd – RWWA Head of Veterinary Services
- Mrs Freya Bennett – RWWA Investigator
- Mr Mike Reed – trainer of Ragazzo Mach NZ
- Mr Mark Reed – licensed driver/stablehand
Trainer Mike Reed was subsequently found guilty of the charge issued under Harness Rule of Racing 190A (1) (a) with the particulars of the charge being that he was the licensed trainer of Ragazzo Mach NZ when a blood sample was taken from it on Wednesday, 4 January 2023 for the purposes of out-of-competition testing, which was found to have the presence of Stanozolol, a substance specified within sub-rule (2) (r) of that rule as an anabolic androgenic steroid.
After hearing submissions on penalty, stewards reserved their decision with respect to penalty pending deliberations. The suspension of Mr Reed’s license continues to apply until the matter is concluded.
As a result of admissions made before the panel by Mark Reed with respect to the administration of Stanozolol to Ragazzo Mach NZ, his licences were suspended with stewards issuing a direction that he is to be excluded from any involvement in racing (including attending any areas restricted to licensed persons or performing any duties in relation to racehorses) pending further outcome of the inquiry relating to his admissions. An inquiry in relation to Mark Reed will be conducted on a date to be determined.
Ragazzo Mach NZ remains unable to compete in or be nominated for any event until the inquiry is concluded.