The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (NHA) confirms a Prohibited Substance finding. 

The presence of O-Desmethyltramadol, a synthetic opioid analgesic classified as a Class 2 prohibited substance, was disclosed upon analysis of a specimen taken from ROYAL KINGDOM after the running of Race 3 at Fairview Racecourse on 23 May 2025.   

The Trainer responsible, Miss K Mitchley, exercised her rights in terms of the Rules and requested that the reference specimen be sent to the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) Laboratory for confirmatory analysis.  The NHA subsequently received written confirmation from the HKJC Laboratory that the specimen was analysed and the prohibited substance, O-Desmethyltramadol, was present, unequivocally confirming the NHA Laboratory’s initial findings.  

O-Desmethyltramadol is the primary active metabolite of tramadol. It exerts more potent effects at the µ-opioid receptor than tramadol itself and is responsible for much of tramadol’s pain-relieving action. Tramadol and its metabolites have limited legitimate use in horses due to variable oral bioavailability and concerns over safety and efficacy. O-Desmethyltramadol is considered a prohibited substance because of its potential to alter pain perception and performance. 

Miss Mitchley elected to sign an Admission of Guilt for a contravention of Rule 73.2.4 and the minimum penalty of a fine of R250 000 was imposed. 

Furthermore, ROYAL KINGDOM is accordingly disqualified from the race in terms of Rule 72.3.2. 

In determining the above 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, the status of the race, whether there was adequate compliance with the Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR) and the outcome of the investigation.

Vee Moodley

Chief Executive