New racing board policy on steroids use in horses seen to increase racetrack attendance
The New Jersey Racing Commission recently submitted a proposal regarding the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids among thoroughbred racehorses.
The new rule only permits four anabolic steroids in trace amounts at the time of the testing. Boldenone, nandrolone, stanozolol and testosterone are permitted provided amounts fall below 200 picograms/ milliliter. The effects of steroids should not interfere with the horse’s performance during racing.
Trainers found to violate this policy could get their license suspended and they will be fined a certain amount.
This rule is actually similar to the rule authorized by Frank Zanzuccki, the New Jersey Racing Commission executive director, for standardbreds.
This new rule is already implemented in 20 states all over the country.
The proposed rule is expected to have a positive deterrent in the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids in horseracing. It could particularly decrease the number of raced thoroughbreds with anabolic steroids in their system.
This rule could also help promote fairness in horseracing. It could help increase the number of people who wager and possibly, the racetrack attendance.
Anabolic steroids could possibly induce aggressive behavior in horses that could cause them to bite and kick, officials said.
From Asbury Park Press:
New Jersey regulations lagged until a state appeals court reversed a ruling that prevented officials from pursuing new guidelines. An organization representing horsemen had argued that the racing commission acted before a study on the topic had been completed.
