Cullen Suspended One Year

The Ontario Racing Commission has denied an appeal from driver Al Cullen and has suspended his license for a period of one year, effective May 12, 2008.

Cullen had appealed against:

• i a 15-day suspension as a result of SB Ruling SB 30/2008, dated 14 February, 2008, issued by Deputy Director Rob McKinney for a violation of Rule 36.08 (c) (i) of the Rules of Standardbred Racing for a positive random test, saliva sample, from February 2, 2008 at Windsor Raceway, Ontario.
• ii. made an application for a declaration that the manner in which the 15-day suspension was imposed resulted in an unnecessary and inappropriate delay in his return to racing; and
• iii. made an application to reinstate his licenses following an indefinite suspension as a result of SB Ruling 66/2008, dated April 23, 2008, issued by Deputy Director, Robert McKinney, for violation of Rule 36.08 (c) (ii) of the Rules of Standardbred Racing, for a positive follow-up test, urine sample from March 28, 2008 at Windsor Raceway.

On Thursday, May 1, 2008 during an ORC meeting, the ORC dismissed Cullen's appeals and ordered further that, upon completion of his suspension, Cullen:

• must provide proof to the Director that he has successfully completed a substance abuse program, and
• that he is enrolled as an active participant in an accredited aftercare program for a minimum of one year.
• must demonstrate to the Director that he is worthy of having his licenses reinstated following his suspension;
• which will include a negative alcohol and drug test at his cost.
• In addition, he will be placed upon probation for 2 years.
• The Director may see fit to attach conditions to his reinstatement.
• Any breach of those conditions will cause an automatic suspension of his licence with a requirement that he appear before the Commission.

To view a copy of the ORC ruling, click here.

(With files from the ORC)