Survey of positive results from racecourse antidoping samples received at Racecourse Security Services' Laboratories

A review of positive Jockey Club "dope tests" during the 12 years from 1970 to 1981 inclusive is presented and a comparison made with certain overseas racing authorities for varying periods between 1975 and 1981. Urinary pH of post race urine samples is predominantly acidic (although varying in a significant manner throughout the year) and thus favours excretion of the generally more potent basic drugs. The proportion of positive results was about the same in winners and non-winners, ie, one in 400 horses sampled. Drugs found fell mainly into four categories: methylxanthines; non-steroidal anti- inflammatories ; local anaesthetics and anabolic steroids. Evidence indicates that deliberate "doping" is relatively rare. This contrasts with certain overseas authorities were evidence of "doping" is usually much stronger and occurs more frequently (about one in five; one in 50 and one in 240 in the three authorities cited) and where sympathomimetic amines are relatively frequent. Evidence of the deterrent effect of routine testing is presented.