CHRB approves steroid rules

The California Horse Racing Board approved an amendment Thursday that would prohibit the use of anabolic steroids within a specified period before a race. The amendment would set withdrawal times of 30 to 60 days for the only four anabolic steroids that would be allowed for use: stanazolol, nandrolone, boldenone, and testosterone.

The goal is to have a steroid-free Breeders' Cup when it is run at Santa Anita in October 2008, said Dr. Rick Arthur, the board's equine medical director, at a CHRB meeting in Davis, Calif., on Thursday. Currently, the use of anabolic steroids is unregulated in California.

Penalties for horses who test positive for steroids include a 30-day suspension for the trainer and redistribution of the purse.

The amendment is now open to a 45-day period of public comment before it goes back to the board for a final vote.

The amendment is modeled on recommendations by the Association of Racing Commissioners International.