The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) Stewards have opened an inquiry into suspicious activity observed at the stable of Toowoomba trainer Ben Currie this morning.
QRIC Commissioner Ross Barnett said members of the QRIC’s Integrity Investigations Team (ITT) observed a stable employee of Toowoomba trainer Ben Currie acting suspiciously in the vicinity of a number of thoroughbred race horses this morning, some of which are racing at today’s Toowoomba Weetwood Handicap.
“IIT officers have interviewed the employee and trainers Mark Currie and Ben Currie about their observations and have also seized some items from the stable including CCTV equipment which they believe will assist them in their enquiries,” he said.
“Todays’ Toowoomba Chairman of Stewards has opened an inquiry and taken initial evidence from the stable employee, Mark Currie and Ben Currie and a Commission veterinarian has taken saliva, urine and blood samples from seven horses.
“At this time there is not sufficient evidence to warrant the disqualification of the runners from racing at Toowoomba today, but if subsequent enquiries determine there has been the administration of race day treatment that contravenes the rules of racing, these horses may be subsequently disqualified.
“This matter will be vigorously pursued to establish the facts of todays’ alleged incident,” Mr Barnett said.
Further information will be released when it becomes available.