Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have received a report from Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) confirming that a prohibited substance has been detected in a blood sample collected from the Paul Banks trained racehorse, Coastal Chic.
The report relates to a pre-race blood sample taken from Coastal Chic prior to the mare finishing ninth in the Bourke Builders 0-58 Handicap 2800 metres at the Echuca Racecourse on 15 September 2018.
RASL reported that the blood sample was shown to contain a total carbon dioxide (TCO2) at concentration in excess of 36.0millimoles per litre in plasma and therefore a prohibited substance in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing.
The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory also reported that the blood sample was shown to contain a total carbon dioxide (TCO2) at concentration in excess of 36.0millimoles per litre in plasma within the reserve portion of the blood sample.
RV Stewards initially informed Mr Banks of the irregularity on 19 September 2018. He was today advised of the confirmatory findings and that Stewards are continuing their investigation.