Coach Raymond Handal was temporarily suspended due to the lifting of the Equestrian Integrity Unit on July 5.
HIWU has temporarily suspended Handal because one of his horses tested positive for the banned substance zeranol. However, HIWU, on its website says it has “lifted the temporary suspension based on the information submitted by the insured and the review of the relevant scientific information.”
HIWU added that the Anti-Doping Notice for Horses issued to trainers “has not been withdrawn.”
Attorney Clark Brewster, who is representing Handal, said that while it was unfortunate that there was a temporary fix, the process went on as usual.
“I’m really encouraged by common sense and considering that (HISA and HIWU) lent in this case,” he said. “Because when the lab did the test, even though they reported an adverse test result or had a banned drug, they also reported an atypical finding for a substance called zearalenone. , is derived from food… and is likely the source of a metabolite of zeranol, a banned drug.”
The New York-based coach faced a two-year suspension after barriers tested positive for zeranol while runner-up in the optional claim race on May 28 at Belmont Park | BloodHorse.com track record”>Belmont Park. Owned by Theresa and David Palmer, 5 year old kid war dancers gelding lost half the length.
“With today’s temporary suspension of HIWU, coach Ray Handal can once again fully participate in all training and racing activities at (New York Racing Association) tracks,” Pat McKenna, NYRA vice president of communications.
The United States Anti-Doping Agency lists zeranol as an approved veterinary drug for use in livestock in the United States, including beef cattle. Sold under the brand name Ralgro, zeranol is a growth promoter in cattle and is also used in sheep. It is not approved by the Federal Drug Administration for use in horses.
