The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (the NHA) confirms reported Prohibited Substance findings.
The presence of Meloxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) classified as a Class 4 prohibited substance, was disclosed upon laboratory analysis of specimens collected from DESTINY’S ANGEL, MYTHICAL DREAM, POLYNOMIAL and SLINGS AND ARROWS, at Trainer Mr G D Smith’s Racing Stable at the Fairview Training Centre on 22 May 2025.
Meloxicam is commonly used in equine practice to manage musculoskeletal pain and inflammation.
Mr Smith elected to sign an Admission of Guilt for a contravention of Rule 73.2.1, read with 10.5.14, and a fine for an amount of R33 000 was imposed. In determining the penalty, careful consideration was given to the class of substance involved, the Trainer’s record of prior prohibited substance contraventions within the past five years, the concentration of the substance detected in the specimen, and whether there was adequate compliance with the Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR).
The horses ran on 23 May 2025 at Fairview Racecourse in the following races:
- DESTINY’S ANGEL – ran in Race 6 (finished 9/9)
- MYTHICAL DREAM – carded to run in Race 7 (scratched)
- POLYNOMIAL – ran in Race 7 (finished 10/14)
- SLINGS AND ARROWS – ran in Race 6 (finished 6/9)
Furthermore, in terms of Rule 72.3.2, the horses listed in points 1., 3. and 4. above are accordingly disqualified from the said races.
This outcome follows a cautionary notice to Trainers on Anti-inflammatory Drug Treatment of Horses, previously issued by the NHA, which highlighted the detection of sub-therapeutic concentrations of anti-inflammatories, including Meloxicam, in both race day and out-of-competition specimens, which has prompted enhanced surveillance and testing of horses in the lead-up to race day.
A D Hyde
Racing Control Executive