IPOH,  14 Nov 2009

Trainer Tan Soo Beng was fined RM25,000 when the stewards concluded an inquiry into AISA STAR returning a positive swab after its race at Sungei Besi on Oct 4.

Eleven-year-old ASIA STAR (Flying Pegasus - Twist Top by Beaufort Sea) finished second to CITY STAR in the RM80,000 Kelang Silver Bowl (Class 3 - 1200m) after which his urine sample returned positive to “Phenylbutazone & Metabolite”.

At the conclusion of an inquiry today, evidence was taken from Prof Dr Tan Soo Choon, the Chief Analyst, Usains Holding Sdn Bhd and Dr Alistair Murdoch, the Senior Veterinary Surgeon of the Perak Turf Club.

Tan pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 134(6)(a) as read with MRA Rule 134(13) in that he accepted to run ASIA STAR which ran second placing in the above race and its post race urine sample subsequently returned positive to “Phenylbutazone & Metabolite”, a prohibited substance under MRA Rules.

When deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into consideration the nature of the drug, Tan’s mitigating factors and his previous record. Tan was fined RM25,000 and was advised of his right of appeal.

In addition, in terms of MRA Rule 134(11), ASIA STAR was disqualified from the race and the results were amended accordingly.

Trainer SB Tan subsequently exercised his right of appeal against the severity of the fine. The appeal will be held on a date to be fixed.