SINGAPORE,  22 Jan 2010

BIG MAVERICK, first past the post in the S$500,000 Raffles Cup last Oct 18, has been disqualified from the Singapore Group 1 event.

Second-placed CHEYENNE DANCER is now promoted to first, giving trainer Michael Freedman his first Group 1 winner in Singapore.

Samples taken from the gelding after the 1,800m race revealed the presence of 3-Hydroxy-N-Methylmorphinan.

The referee sample sent overseas for independent analysis confirmed the presence of 3-Hydroxy-N-Methylmorphinan.

At the conclusion of an inquiry on Monday, trainer Laurie Laxon was found guilty to a charge under MRA Rule of Racing 134(6) in that he, as the trainer of BIG MAVERICK, presented that horse which took part in the Raffles Cup, following which a urine sample taken from that horse failed a post-race screening which was found to contain the presence of 3-Hydroxy-N-Methylmorphinan, a prohibited substance under the MRA Rules of Racing. Laxon was fined a sum of S$25,000 and was advised of his right of appeal.

In terms of Rule 134(11), BIG MAVERICK was disqualified from the race and the result amended accordingly.