De Kock accepts blame

The National Horseracing Authority (NHA) confirmed an Inquiry was held in Johannesburg on 24 November, trainer Mike de Kock was charged with contravention of Rule 73.2.4 in that he was the trainer responsible for the horse Janoobi from which a specimen was taken, after he had won the Daisy Guineas, at Greyville on 7 May. Analysis showed the presence of Dexamethasone, a prohibited substance in terms of NHA rules.

De Kock did not appear before the Inquiry Board, as he had accepted responsibility prior to the Inquiry. The Inquiry Board entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of De Kock and after considering the evidence of the matter and the submissions of the NHA, found De Kock guilty.

The Inquiry Board imposed a fine of R23,000 of which R8,000 is wholly suspended for a period of two years, provided De Kock is not found guilty of the same rule.

In terms of Rule 72.3.2, Janoobi has been disqualified from the race and the provisions of Rule 67.7.8 shall apply.

Speaking exclusively to Racing Express De Kock explained that Janoobi went to race in Durban where he was dripped and given vitamins. “Apart from the routine treatment he had in Joburg the only exposure to any form of medication was that treatment by the vets in Durban.

“There must have been a breakdown in stable management. No trainer wants to go through this but mistakes do happen and I accept that.

“All that I was found guilty of was being the person responsible for the horse.

‘‘Having said that, the only explanation I owe is to the NHA, who accepted my explanation, and the owner, Sheikh Hamdan.”

De Kock also paid a compliment to the NHA. “I’m happy the NHA are doing their job. I accept their findings and I did not contest them. It is a big stake to give back but I must take it on the chin.

“I just wish the NHA would make the full judgment available on the website so people can read the full facts.”