Section 90. Bicarbonate testing

A. Generally. By this regulation, the Virginia Racing Commission prohibits the feeding or administration to a horse on race day of any bicarbonate-containing substance or other alkalinizing substance that effectively alters the serum or plasma pH or concentration of bicarbonates or carbon dioxide in the horse.

B. Test values. A serum or plasma total carbon dioxide level exceeding 37.0 millimoles per liter constitutes a positive test.

C. Testing procedure. The stewards or commission veterinarian may, at their discretion and at any time, order the collection of test samples from any horses present within the enclosure for determination of serum or plasma pH or concentration of bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, or electrolytes. Preracing testing or post-race testing may be done at a time and manner directed by the commission veterinarian. Whether prerace or post-race, the sample shall consist of at least two blood tubes taken from the horse to determine the serum total carbon dioxide concentration. If the chief racing chemist finds that the total carbon dioxide levels in the tubes exceed the standard test values of 37.0 millimoles per liter, then he shall inform the stewards of the positive test results.

D. Split samples prohibited. The procedures for split sample testing shall not apply to bicarbonate testing procedures.

E. Disciplinary actions. The stewards shall, absent mitigating circumstances specifically noted in their findings, impose the following disciplinary action for violation of this section:

1. First offense: $2,500 fine and 90-day suspension; loss of purse.

2. Second offense: $5,000 fine and 180-day suspension; loss of purse.

3. Third offense: Revocation of license.

The stewards also may refer the case to the commission for further disciplinary action.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 12, Issue 24, eff. September 18, 1996; amended, Virginia Register Volume 14, Issue 22, eff. August 20, 1998; Volume 18, Issue 19, eff. May 10, 2002; Volume 21, Issue 16, eff. March 31, 2003; Volume 21, Issue 16, eff. May 18, 2005; Volume 26, Issue 19, eff. May 29, 2010; Volume 29, Issue 13, eff. March 1, 2013; Volume 31, Issue 18, eff. May 1, 2015.

Statutory Authority

§ 59.1-369 of the Code of Virginia.