Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have received a report from Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) confirming that a prohibited substance was detected in a pre-race urine sample collected from the Maxim Van Lierde trained racehorse, Gentian Blue.
The report relates to a pre-race urine sample taken from Gentian Blue prior to the mare starting in the Evergreen Turf Handicap BM78 (Race 3) over 1800 metres at Caulfield Racecourse on 31 August 2024, where the mare finished fourth.
RASL reported that the urine sample was shown to contain the metabolites of Lignocaine (a local anaesthetic), namely 3-Hydroxylignocaine and Norlignocaine, which are prohibited substances on race day in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing.
The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) also reported that it had detected 3-Hydroxylignocaine and Norlignocaine within the reserve portion of the urine sample.
Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic agent commonly used for topical and local anaesthesia. It also has analgesic and antiarrhythmic properties. Lignocaine is registered for use in horses and is available in a range of formulations (injectable and topical). It is often present in topical preparations used to treat a variety of skin conditions in horses. Lignocaine is a prohibited substance under the Australian Rules of Racing when detected in a sample taken from a horse at a race meeting or trial (including an official trial or a jump-out for the purpose of obtaining a permit to start in a race).
RV Stewards initially informed Mr Van Lierde of the irregularity on 18 October 2024. Mr Van Lierde has now been informed of the confirmatory findings and that Stewards are continuing their investigation.