Beginning with the upcoming March Sale of Two Year Olds under tack show, Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company will initiate implementation of Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI) guidelines for controlled therapeutic medications. The first phase will include adopting the ARCI medication schedule for administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and bronchodilators. OBS will incorporate the entire ARCI medication schedule by the 2016 Two Year Old Sale season. The policy regarding the use of a riding crop has also been refined.
“In addition to existing state regulations, random testing during our breeze shows has been in effect for many years including OBS restrictions that limit the use of medications and prohibit the use of all Class 1 and Class 2 drugs, Salix, and procaine penicillin, ” said OBS president Tom Ventura. “Adding the ARCI guidelines will enhance our current policy and promote the movement toward uniform race day medication rules throughout the country.”
Ongoing efforts to create a uniform medication policy have been led by The Jockey Club collaborating with many industry groups, including the ARCI and the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC). Many racing states have adopted or are in the process of adopting the model rule policies. A bill that would have the state of Florida implementing the ARCI Model Rules by January of 2016 has been introduced into the state Senate and House of Representatives.
“OBS fully supports the bill being considered by the Florida legislature at the upcoming legislative session,” said OBS chairman Mike O’Farrell . “It is incumbent upon leaders in the industry to take steps to implement policies that promote and protect the integrity of the game. This is a step in the right direction.”
Modifications to the policy for use of a riding crop at an under tack show will also go into effect at the OBS March Sale. At any time during a breeze, a rider may only use the riding crop while both hands are holding the reins and may not strike the horse behind the girth. A rider is prohibited from striking the horse in any manner beyond the finish line. In situations where the safety of the horse or rider is in jeopardy, a riding crop may be used in front of the girth. Excessive whipping before the beginning of the work or in preparation for a breeze is prohibited.
OBS Policy for Medication, Prohibited Practices, Riding Crops and Horseshoes