Ontario expands drug testing

The Ontario Racing Commission, expanding its medication control program, has announced that any horse racing in Ontario must be made available for a biological sample at any time or place and without prior notice.

Biological samples could include blood, urine, or hair. The program, which will take effect immediately, is meant to determine the existence of any substance or drug that has no therapeutic value.

Owners or trainers who refuse could be denied the right to enter horses in future races at Ontario racetracks.

In May of 2006, the ORC introduced a similar program that allowed the taking of blood samples only.