Odds On Racing - Harness Racing

Illinois Racing Board debates Testing Changes

February 22, 2005

The Illinois Racing Board is looking into changing testing for TCo2 back to a post-race test from the current pre-race test. This would be in response to the rule change that allows for an increase in the allowable amount of Salix (Lasix) to 500mg. According to the Board, the analytical data is not available for comparison for pre-race testing at the 500mg level, but is available for post-race testing, which forces them to switch back to a post-race test. The question that remains is the length of detention time.

The Board has not made a decision on how long detention time should be. There has been discussion to give horsemen a relief by rolling back detention time to four hours from the current five hours. The increase in the amount of allowable Lasix, the switch to post-race testing, and a relief in the length of detention time will be up for consideration at the Board’s monthly meeting on March 8.

Members of the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association are asked to contact the Board to let them know their views on the length of detention time. If there is no relief from the current five hours, horses that are subject to testing would have to spend up to a total of seven hours in the paddock. Contact the Board by writing, faxing, or e-mailing comments, as soon as possible, and forward a copy to the IHHA.

Send correspondence to: Marc Laino, executive director, The Illinois Racing Board, Suite 7-701, James R. Thompson Center, 100 West Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: (312) 814-2600 or Fax: (312) 814-5062 E-mail: racing_board@irb.state.il.us
Web Site: www.state.il.us/agency/irb/default.htm .

These matters will be considered at the next IRB meeting, which will be held on Tuesday, March 8 at 10:30 a.m. (CST) at 160 N. LaSalle St., fifth floor, Room C-500. The meeting will be open to the public, and horsemen and women are encouraged to attend.