Alex Chew suspended two months

KUALA LUMPUR:  Oct 30, 2010

Apprentice Alex Chew has been suspended two months after his urine sample taken on Oct 10 during the Penang Turf Club October Meeting held at Sungei Besi returned a positive test.

The Stewards concluded an inquiry into the above matter today at the Selangor Turf Club. Evidence was taken from Chew, in the presence of his master, trainer Hoy Kee Poh, Wooi Peng Howe, analyst, Usains Holding Sdn Bhd, and Dr B. Vasanth Rao, club medical officer of the Selangor Turf Club.

Chew pleaded guilty to a charge under MRA Rule 136(3)(b) and the particulars of the charge were that a urine sample coded "J-2179" submitted by him on Oct 10 the Penang Turf Club October Meeting 2010 (races held at the Selangor Turf Club), on analysis, revealed the presence of "Pseudoephedrine", which is a prohibited substance under the MRA Rules.

In deciding on penalty, the Stewards took into account the nature of the drug, his record and his guilty plea. Chew was suspended for a period of two months with immediate effect from Oct 15 to Dec 14, both days inclusive. He was advised of his right of appeal.