Australian Endurance Riders Association (AERA) advises that there were two adverse analytical findings involving prohibited substances from samples taken at the Stirling’s Classic event held on 30 April 2023.
Two horses tested positive to the prohibited substance Salicylic Acid above the threshold of 6.5 micrograms per milliliter in plasma. Salicylic Acid is listed as a controlled medication on the FEI list of prohibited substances.
Stirling’s Thor, ridden by Matthew Sample, and Brookleigh Danu ridden by Tracy-Lee Cossor, have both been disqualified from the ride. Matthew Sample is the owner and trainer of both horses. Both have received penalties in accordance with the AERA / EADCM rules, by the imposition of fines, loss of results and associated awards, and the requirement to pay costs.
AERA reminds all persons involved in the sport of endurance to be aware of what is being given to horses under their care.
AERA Secretary
4 November 2023