Wood Ditton winner Mariners Cross fails drug test

Enquiry to be heard by Disciplinary Panel on Thursday 16th August - Prohibited Substance


Mariner’s Cross (IRE), trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni, tested positive for Propoxyphene after a race at Newmarket in April

The Horseracing Forensic Laboratory (HFL) Sport Science has reported that the analysis of the urine taken from MARINER’S CROSS trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni, after finishing first in the Swan at Lavenham Wood Ditton Stakes at Newmarket on the 19th April 2012 has confirmed the presence of Propoxyphene, which is a prohibited substance within the meaning of Rule (C)53 of the Rules of Racing. The findings were confirmed by HFL Sport Science, who also performed the counter analysis.

The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority will hold an inquiry to consider whether:

1) Mahmood Al Zarooni acted in breach of Rule (C)53 of the Rules of Racing in respect of the finding of Propoxyphene in the urine sample taken from Mariner’s Cross;
2) To take action in respect of the possible disqualification of the colt under Rule (A)74.2 Ground 3

A hearing is scheduled to take place on Thursday 16th August 2012.

Lyric of Light (GB), trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni, tested positive for Propoxyphene after a race at Newmarket in May

The Horseracing Forensic Laboratory (HFL) Sport Science has reported that the analysis of the urine taken from LYRIC OF LIGHT trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni, after finishing last in the Qipco 1000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket on the 6th May 2012 has confirmed the presence of Propoxyphene, which is a prohibited substance within the meaning of Rule (C)53 of the Rules of Racing. The findings were confirmed by HFL Sport Science, who also performed the counter analysis.

The Disciplinary Panel of the British Horseracing Authority will hold an inquiry to consider whether:

1) Mahmood Al Zarooni acted in breach of Rule (C)53 of the Rules of Racing in respect of the finding of Propoxyphene in the urine sample taken from Lyric of Light;
2) To take action in respect of the possible disqualification of the filly under Rule (A)74.2 Ground 3

A hearing is scheduled to take place on Thursday 16th August 2012.

Notes to Editors:

Guide to Penalties
The current guideline penalties are as follows:
Rule(C)53 – Positive sample in error/on veterinary advice: Entry Point - £1000, Range - £750 to £10,000




For more information contact:



Robin Mounsey
British Horseracing Authority
t:02071520048
m:07584171551
e: rmounsey@britishhorseracing.com