Prominent Gold Coast trainer Les Kelly is facing a racing suspension after admitting to administering EPO to two of his horses last year.
Originally handed an 18-month ban by stewards, with two 15-month penalties partially concurrent, the Racing NSW Appeals Panel has decided the penalties should be served fully concurrent, shortening the ban from December 22, 2023, to March 22, 2025.
Horse floats have been seen at Kelly’s Gold Coast stables, indicating the transfer of his horses to other trainers.
Notably, Queensland Oaks placegetter Noah ‘N’ Deel has moved to fellow Gold Coast trainer Gary Doughty’s stable.
Kelly has lodged another appeal with the NSW Racing Appeals Tribunal regarding his sentencing, though he was denied a stay this time.
Nonetheless, he’s been allowed to continue training in Queensland, tallying 13 wins this season from 74 runners.
The suspension is linked to Gogol and Freddie Fox Trot testing positive for EPO after the 2022 Ramornie Handicap at Grafton.
Despite the setback, Kelly remains a prominent trainer, with three Gold Coast training premierships in the past five years.
