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7 Horses Test Positive For Steroids, Trainer Banned

7 Horses have tested positive for steroids in what is shaping up to be a bigger investigation than the British Horseracing Authority originally thought. The horses, which were all trained by Mahmood A...
7 Horses Test Positive For Steroids, Trainer Banned
Written by Amanda Crum
  • 7 Horses have tested positive for steroids in what is shaping up to be a bigger investigation than the British Horseracing Authority originally thought.

    The horses, which were all trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni, were screened after 11 other horses from the same stable tested positive. Al Zarooni admitted to giving steroids to four horses and has been banned by the BHA for eight years, though he says he plans to appeal that decision. In a shocking twist, one of the horses involved was 2012 St Leger winner Encke.

    “These test results endorse the swift action and measures taken by the BHA in this matter,” said BHA chief executive Paul Bittar. “Whatever the outcome of his appeal before the independent Appeal Board, the gravity and scale of the infringements warranted Mahmood Al Zarooni being removed from control of the yard as quickly as possible. We welcome the news that Saeed bin Suroor’s horses tested negative and this clears the way for him to now take charge of Moulton Paddocks.”

    According to The Daily Mail, the horses involved in the latest scandal are:

    ENCKE
    Raced four times in 2012 concluding with victory in the St Leger (Group 1) on September 15 at Doncaster. Unraced since. The horse was subjected to post race tests (both negative) on 22nd August at York and again at Doncaster after the St Leger.

    ENERGIZER
    Won at Royal Ascot 2012 when trained in Germany. Finished last of six in the Great Voltigeur (Group 2) at York on 22nd August on only start for Mahmood Al Zarooni. Unraced since.

    GENIUS BEAST
    Unraced since finishing eighth of nine in 2011 St Leger.

    IMPROVISATION
    Ran twice in 2012 as a two year old, finishing third to Steeler on his second start in a Goodwood maiden. Won a maiden race at Newmarket on 17th April 2013 after which the horse was not selected for post race testing.

    STAMFORD
    Ran twice in 2012 as a two year old, finishing third and fourth in maiden races. Unraced since.

    STEELER
    As yet unraced in the colours of Godolphin. Ran six times for Mark Johnston as a two year old including winning the Royal Lodge (Group 2) at Newmarket and finishing third in the Racing Post Trophy before transferring to Godolphin.

    ZIP TOP
    Unraced since finishing second to Camelot in Racing Post Trophy in October 2011, when trained by Jim Bolger.

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