The Ontario Racing Commission today released its ruling regarding the appeal and request for hearing of
horseman Evzen Pindur.
Pindur was licensed by the ORC as a driver/trainer/owner/authorized agent.
On March 18, 2008, blood samples were drawn from four horses trained by Pindur during out-of-competition testing at Mohawk Racetrack.
The sample drawn from racehorse Doughnut Hanover tested positive for Darbepoetin-Alpha (Aranesp).
On April 23, 2008, the executive director of the ORC made an order for the immediate suspension of the licence of Pindur together with a proposed order for both suspension and fine.
Pindur requested a hearing before the ORC.
On November 2, 2009, a hearing was held before a panel of the ORC, consisting of commissioner David Gorman.
Evzen Pindur appeared in person at the hearing.
Pindur was represented by Howard Cohen, counsel.
Anthony Williams appeared as counsel on behalf of the administration.
Upon reading of the exhibits filed and upon hearing the submissions of both counsel, the commission accepted the proposed resolution agreement from counsel and ordered as follows:
- i) The ORC licence of Pindur will be suspended from April 23, 2008 to April 22, 2020, and
- ii) A fine of $25,000 is imposed.
To view a copy of the release and view the panels reasons for decision, click here.
(With files from the ORC)