New Rules for Drug Testing in NY

January 1, the day on which all race horses celebrate their birthdays, was also the day on which the New York Racing and Wagering board adopted their new drug testing rules. These rules permit racing authorities in the state to conduct unannounced drug testing on horses scheduled to compete on New York state tracks, even if these horses are not stabled in the state.

It is a bold move by the racing powers that be in the state and is designed to catch "cheaters" in the act since the horses can be tested within 180 days of a race date in New York. "These new rules give us the tools we need to go after the cheaters," said John Sabatini, Chairman of the New York Racing and Wagering Board. "By adopting out of competition testing rules, the board is protecting not only the wagering public but also the health and safety of the magnificent equine athletes who compete at New York's four thoroughbred and seven harness tracks."

The drug test can be ordered regardless of where the horses are being stabled and a trainer or owner who fails to comply, faces serious sanctions including stiff fines and the possibility of having his/her license revoked.

It remains to be seen whether or not this new policy will turn up any positives, but on has to commend the NYRA for making its position well known. Put simply, as Sabatini does, they "are very serious in promoting integrity in racing."

So why doesn't this become an across the board policy for the entire sport?