SINGAPORE,  27 Feb 2009

LIM'S CONNECTION, winner of a Kranji Stakes C - 1400m sprint last August, and MIGHTY LAD, who finished third in a Novice - 1400m event in March last year, have been disqualified from their respective races.

Urine sample taken from both horses failed a post-race screening which was found to contain the presence of Bufotenine, a prohibited substance under the MRA Rules of Racing.

After undertaking a significant amount of investigation, the Stewards concluded an inquiry on Wednesday with regards to LIM'S CONNECTION.

Steven Burridge, trainer of LIM'S CONNECTION, was found guilty to a charge under MRA Rule of Racing 134(6).

After considering all the submissions in regard to penalty and considering the circumstances of the matter including in that upon analysis there were precursors to Bufotenine in samples of feed impounded from the trainers’ premises and this may have resulted in these positive findings, the Stewards determined to take no direct action. However, Burridge was warned and advised under necessity of the obligations placed on a trainer pursuant to Rule 134(6) of the MRA Rules of Racing and that at any time in the future when he may have any concerns regarding any of his feed and / or feed supplements that this should be brought immediately to the attention of the Stewards in order that a thorough investigation can be done in relation to any concerns. Burridge was advised of his right of appeal.

The Stewards also concluded an inquiry on the same day on the MIGHTY LAD case. His trainer Patrick Shaw was also found guilty to the same charge.

After considering all the submissions in regard to penalty and considering the circumstances of the matter including in that upon analysis there were precursors to Bufotenine in samples of feed impounded from trainers’ premises and this may have resulted in these positive findings, the Stewards determined to take no direct action. However, Shaw was warned and advised under necessity of the obligations placed on a Trainer pursuant to Rule 134(6) of the MRA Rules of Racing and that at any time in the future when he may have any concerns regarding any of his feed and / or feed supplements that this should be brought immediately to the attention of the Stewards in order that a thorough investigation can be done in relation to any concerns. Shaw was advised of his right of appeal.