Red flag for Atared

By Oscar Pilipili

A second horse under care of Gavin Laurence has tested positive to a prohibited substance.

A Stewards of Racing Panel consisting of David Markham, John Hawley, John Limb, Tim Vaulkhard and Nigel Hunter meeting last Wednesday announced that Atared was positive for the prohibited substance caffeine.

Atared won the fourth race during the season-ending meeting at Ngong’ Racecourse last month.

South Africa jockey, Tim Pretorious, atop Atared. The horse was tested and returned positive to caffeine. [PHOTO: SAMUEL NYAKONDO/STANDARD]

A statement from Jockey Club of Kenya read: "In regard to the finding and acceptance by the Trainer G Laurence that Atared (SAF), winner of the fourth race on July 26, 2006, was positive for the prohibited substance Caffeine."

"In accordance with Rule 42.4, Atared (SAF) has been disqualified from the race…"

The statement further states: "In accordance with Rule 75.6, and given the ultimate responsibility of a trainer for the care of his horses, Mr Laurence has been fined Sh50,000."

The revised results thus:

1. Motion Picture (SAF) P Kiarie/G Fraser

2. Cornelius (Zim) C Mwangi/G Laurence

3. Ocean Spirit J Muindi/ S Wachira

4. Creekside Inn D Tanui/S Wachira.

This was the second time in four months for a doping case to be discovered off results from Ngong Racecourse.

The first case occurred last April when the winner of Kenya Derby Silverdale tested positive to caffeine that is a prohibited substance. Silverdale was consequently stripped of the coveted trophy and prize money of Sh362,600.