Racing chemists working in laboratories around the world typically deliver drug screening, confirmatory analysis, and research/investigative results for the racing jurisdictions they serve. In doing so, reliance is placed on the validity of the laboratory methods and on the ability of the chemist to utilise the methods correctly. All methods delivering results which authorities rely on and from which actions may follow should be fully validated according to accepted industry protocols and which have received the approval of a relevant laboratory accreditation body.
In instances where analytical results form part of a positive medication/doping control case that an authority wishes to pursue, a racing chemist could be asked to defend his or her analytical findings in formal inquiries (hearings/tribunals) or, indeed, on rare occasions, a court of law. To help prepare for such situations the AORC has established a guideline that was first developed by the late Dr John Vine when he was Laboratory Director at Racing Analytical Services Limited (RASL). John’s experience as an expert witness gained by regularly attending inquiries and courts over many years was, and remains, unparalleled; consequently, the guideline benefits from considerable wisdom.
By considering the guideline (and related matters) at this ICRAV its importance to racing chemists can be demonstrated but, in addition, its usefulness to stewards, veterinarians and other racing industry participants might also be appreciated. The document sets down in plain English what is expected of a racing chemist in testing biological specimens and other materials, giving results and providing evidence in inquiries and in court.