Authorities in Ireland and Britain have united to uphold a strict stance on doping within the realm of horseracing. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have joined forces to intensify out-of-competition testing in their respective regions.
Launching a fresh drive against doping and medication misuse, an extensive operation was conducted across 14 training facilities in Ireland, collecting nearly 250 samples from over 120 horses registered for the prestigious Cheltenham Festival.
While adhering to individual protocols set by the IHRB or BHA depending on the location of testing, any adverse findings will be openly shared between the two bodies. All samples will undergo analysis at the renowned LGC Laboratory, recognised by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities as a top-tier facility.
James Given, the BHA's director of equine regulation, safety, and welfare, expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative effort with the IHRB. He emphasised the importance of demonstrating equal scrutiny for horses competing on either side of the Irish Sea and highlighted the potential for knowledge exchange and shared best practices within their teams.
Dr Lynn Hillyer, chief veterinary officer at IHRB, underscored the commitment of both organisations to align with global standards and enhance cooperation with international counterparts. She praised the partnership with BHA as a significant stride towards reinforcing integrity, welfare, and regulatory excellence in horse racing across the jurisdictions.