Failed Drug Test leads to Disqualification and hefty fine.

ERA Stewards yesterday concluded an inquiry into a report received from the Equine Forensic Unit that the prohibited substance furosemide had been detected in the post-race urine sample taken from NYMPHEA DU PAON (FR) after it won Race 3 the Arabian Triple Crown (Round 1) (1600metres) at Abu Dhabi on 5 January 2014.

This finding was confirmed by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Laboratory.

Evidence was taken from Mr. Ernst Oertel trainer of NYMPHEA DU PAON (FR), Veterinarian Dr. Louise Barbesgaard, Equine Forensic Unit Chief Analyst Dr. Peter Albert and ERA Head Veterinary Officer Dr. David Sykes.

Mr. Oertel admitted a breach of ERA Rule of Racing 95A 2 in that he presented   NYMPHEA DU PAON (FR) to race at Abu Dhabi on 5 January 2014. The post-race urine sample taken from that filly upon analysis was found to contain the prohibited substance, furosemide.

Mr. Oertel was fined the sum of AED 60,000.

Further, Mr Oertel admitted a breach of ERA Instruction 9 (xvi) (b) in that he negligently failed to enter into the Official Medication Log Book, treatment given to NYMPHEA DU PAON (FR).

Mr. Oertel was fined the sum of AED 5,000.

Pursuant to ERA 86 (ii) NYMPHEA DU PAON (FR) was disqualified as the winner of Race 3 the Arabian Triple Crown (Round 1) (1600metres) at Abu Dhabi on 5 January 2014 and placings adjusted to read:

1st                           AF AL HAZER (AE)                           (R. Ffrench)
2nd                          MOLAHEN EL ALHAN (AE)                (A. De Vries)
3rd                           SWWING (FR)                                    (T. Durcan)
4th                           AF AL ALMAA (AE)                           (H. Bentley)
5th                           MAJOR (FR)                                        (G. Avranche)