Maxim Van Lierde-trained horse Gentian Blue tests positive for prohibited substance

Cameron Noakes
7NEWS Sport
The Maxim Van Lierde-trained horse Gentian Blue has tested positive for a prohibited substance.
The Maxim Van Lierde-trained horse Gentian Blue has tested positive for a prohibited substance. Credit: Getty Images

Racing Victoria Stewards have revealed that the Maxim Van Lierde-trained horse Gentian Blue has tested positive for a prohibited substance.

The substance was detected in a pre-race urine sample from when the mare competed in the 1800m Evergreen Turf Handicap BM78 (Race 3) at Caulfield Racecourse on August 31 this year.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, RV Stewards say they have received a report from Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) which confirmed the test results.

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RASL reported that the urine sample contained the metabolites of Lignocaine (a local anaesthetic), namely 3-Hydroxylignocaine and Norlignocaine, which are prohibited substances on race days.

The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) also reported that it had detected 3-Hydroxylignocaine and Norlignocaine within the reserve portion of the urine sample.

Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic agent commonly used for topical and local anaesthesia. It also has analgesic and antiarrhythmic properties.

Lignocaine is registered for use in horses and is available in a range of formulations (injectable and topical). It is often present in topical preparations used to treat a variety of skin conditions in horses.

The statement said: “Lignocaine is a prohibited substance under the Australian Rules of Racing when detected in a sample taken from a horse at a race meeting or trial (including an official trial or a jump-out for the purpose of obtaining a permit to start in a race).”

RV Stewards initially informed Van Lierde of the irregular tests on October 18.

Van Lierde has now been informed of the confirmatory findings and RV Stewards say they are continuing their investigation.

Gentian Blue — ridden by Daniel Stackhouse — finished fourth in the race, behind Ciaron Maher’s Convener, Michelle and Patrick Payne’s Mathew, and Mike Moroney and Glen Thompson’s Whisky On The Hill.

Originally published on 7NEWS Sport

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