December 10, 2013, Dubai ~ In a continuing effort to ensure the safety of horses and riders, Emirates Racing Association (ERA) Stewards are delivering messages through fines for medication and other types of infractions found in the UAE racing world. The message was delivered by John Zucal, ERA Chief Steward, that a recent inquiry into a report received from the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory proved that the prohibited substance ibuprofen had been detected in the post-race urine sample taken from DEVDAS (IRE) after it competed and ran second in Race 2 the Emirates Holiday (1400metres) at Meydan on 7 November 2013. This finding has been confirmed by the Singapore Turf Club Laboratory.
Evidence was taken from Mr. Ernst Oertel, trainer of DEVDAS (IRE), Veterinarian Dr. Louise Barbesgaard, Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Chief Analyst Mr. Peter Albert and ERA Head Veterinary Officer, Dr. David Sykes.
Mr. Oertel, who trains for Al Asayl Stables, admitted a breach of ERA Rule of Racing 95A 2 in that he presented DEVDAS (IRE) to race at Meydan on 7 November 2013 with the post-race urine sample taken from that gelding upon analysis, was found to contain the prohibited substance ibuprofen. Mr. Oertel was fined the sum of AED 30,000.
Pursuant to ERA 86 (ii) DEVDAS (IRE) was disqualified from second place and placings adjusted to read:
1st HAZAZ (IRE) (W. Smith)
2ND VIGOR (IRE) (T. O’Shea)
3rd MOODHILL (GB) (D. O’Neil)
4th LAKE HAWK (IRE) (R. Ffrench)
5th SHIHAB (IRE) (R. Mullen)
The Rules and list of Prohibited Substances can be found here: http://www.emiratesracing.com/industry/prohibited-substances