RV Stewards' Report - Grahame Begg

Racing Victoria (RV) Stewards have received a report from Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL) confirming that a prohibited substance was detected in a pre-race blood sample collected from the Grahame Begg trained racehorse, Shades of Pink.

The report relates to a blood sample taken from Shades of Pink prior to running in the Ladbrokes Odds Surge Maiden Plate - (Race 1) over 1100 metres, at Southside Pakenham Racecourse (Synthetic) on 22 June 2026, where Shades of Pink finished sixth. 

RASL reported that the blood sample was shown to contain Meloxicam which is a prohibited substance on race day in accordance with the Australian Rules of Racing.

The Australian Racing Forensics Laboratory also reported that it had detected Meloxicam within the reserve portion of the blood sample.

Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which is approved for use in horses to prevent and treat inflammation.

The substance is, however, prohibited when detected in a sample taken from a horse at a race meeting or trial (including an official trial or a jump-out for the purpose of obtaining a permit to start in a race).

RV Stewards initially informed Mr Grahame Begg of the irregularity on 31 July 2026. He has now been informed of the confirmatory findings and advised that Stewards are continuing their investigation.