Horsemen’s resources as HISA’s drug & meds program goes into effect today (May 22)

The following is from the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU). The Horseracing Integrity & Safety Authority’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control program goes into effect today, May 22:

Dear Horsemen,

After nearly a year of preparation, the Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit (HIWU) team was thrilled to kick off implementation of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s Anti-Doping and Medication Control (ADMC) Program on March 27. This successful launch would not have been possible without the cooperation of participants in the Thoroughbred industry, including horsemen.

As HIWU gets set to relaunch the ADMC Program on May 22, our work continues to ensure the industry is prepared for success and full compliance. To supplement our in-person and virtual meetings with stakeholders across the country, we continue to publish educational resources about various components of the Program in English and Spanish. Resources are available on the HIWU website under Education & Resources in PDF format for download. It would be appreciated if you could please share these resources with your constituents and encourage them to share the materials with their employees. Recent uploads include resources on dietary supplements, differences in testing processes for routine timed workouts versus workouts to be released from the Vets’ List, and processes for retiring/unretiring a Covered Horse from the testing pool.

Another resource that may be of particular interest to your members is our notice on the use of bisphosphonates. Please note that the deadline for bisphosphonates screenings has been extended to May 22.

Additionally, please note that the Racing Medication & Testing Consortium has published withdrawal guidance to assist veterinarians and horsemen: Withdrawal Guidance Advisory.

Furthermore, the complete Prohibited Substance Lists for Banned Substances and Controlled Medications are available on HISA’s and HIWU’s websites.

The HIWU team is committed to supporting all members of the industry through the rollout of the ADMC Program. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you or your constituents have questions about the resources provided or other components of the Program. HIWU is available to meet with stakeholder groups to discuss the Program and answer questions. If you would like to schedule an in-person or virtual meeting with us, please let me know.

Now more than ever, the industry must be united in our efforts to enhance the safety and welfare of our athletes and promote the integrity of Thoroughbred racing. Thank you for partnering with us during this critical time for the sport.

Regards,

Stephanie Jenson

Director of Education

Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit

Drug Free Sport International
[email protected]