On Wednesday (April 6) the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced a number of individuals that have been appointed to the newly-created Horse Racing Appeal Panel.

On December 10, 2015, the Ontario Legislature passed legislation transferring the regulatory responsibilities of the Ontario Racing Commission (ORC) to AGCO, and, at the same time, changing the adjudication process for
appeals of horse racing decisions in Ontario. These changes came into effect on April 1, 2016. The legislation also created a new adjudicative body called the Horse Racing Appeal Panel (HRAP).

The HRAP has responsibility for hearing appeals of decisions made under the Rules of Racing. The majority of these matters will relate to on-track and conduct violations, positive test cases and related decisions made by Judges and Stewards. The HRAP will conduct these hearings as an entirely independent and impartial body at arm’s-length form the AGCO.

The HRAP members have been appointed by the AGCO Board based on an aptitude for impartial adjudication, as well as experience, knowledge or training in the horse racing industry.

On April 1, 2016 the following individuals were appointed to the Horse Racing Appeal Panel:

• Stanley Sadinsky, Kingston -- Chair

• Sandra Meyrick, Toronto -- Vice-Chair

• Dr. John Hayes, Grimsby -- Member

• Brian Newton, Aurora -- Member

• John Charalambous, Maple -- Member

• Bruce Murray, Guelph -- Member

• John Unger, Toronto -- Member

(with files from AGCO)