Trainer mystified after horse tests positive to meth

by Admin
October 4, 2024

The spring carnival has been rocked by confirmation a race-winning horse has tested positive to methamphetamine.

In a statement, Racing Victoria stewards confirmed a “prohibited substance” was detected in a urine sample taken from Justdoit after it won race three at Flemington on August 3.

The horse is trained by Luke Oliver, who reportedly received the news early in September while at hospital for the birth of his daughter.

Oliver told Racenet how the meth got into the horse’s system is a mystery.

“We’re hoping to get to the bottom of it, but it’s been tough on the staff, myself and the mare’s owners,” he said.

Craig Williams (grey silks) riding Justdoit to victory at Flemington in August. The positive samples were taken after this race. Getty

The Racing Victoria statement said the horse tested positive in both samples taken.

“RASL (Racing Analytical Services Limited) reported that the urine sample was shown to contain methamphetamine, which is a prohibited substance on race day in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing,” the statement read.

“The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory also reported that it had detected methamphetamine within the reserve portion of the urine sample.

“Methamphetamine is a nervous system stimulant. There are no reported therapeutic uses for methamphetamine in horses.

“Methamphetamine is a prohibited substance in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing.

Trainer Luke Oliver poses after Justdoit won Race 5, the Tobin Brothers Celebrating Lives - Betting Odds during Melbourne Racing at Sandown Lakeside Racecourse on July 17, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Vince Caligiuri/Getty Images) — Trainer Luke Oliver with Justdoit after a win at Sandown in July. Getty

“RV Stewards initially informed Mr Oliver of the irregularity on 5 September 2024. Mr Oliver has now been informed of the confirmatory findings and that RV Stewards are continuing their investigation.”

With jockey Craig Williams on board, Justdoit edged the Daniel Stackhouse-ridden Street Delight to win the race. Alpine Flyer was nearly two lengths back.

Justdoit has won five races from 18 starts. The August Flemington win was the mare’s second in succession, having won at a heavy Sandown a fortnight earlier.

Justdoit finished 9th of 10 runners in its only race since, at Caulfield on August 17.

Oliver has seven horses entered into the Sale race meeting next Wednesday.