The Ontario Racing Commission today released the details regarding a pair of rulings, one each for driver Mike Saftic and trainer Jamie Doig
.
Doig was appealing a six-month suspension and $3,000 fine which was handed down by ORC judges relating to a Class 2 post-race positive test produced by Miabeachgirl after a June 11, 2009 race at Sarnia's Hiawatha Horse Park.
Upon hearing the testimony of ORC judge Paul Dyson and Doig, reviewing the exhibits filed, and upon hearing the closing submissions, the ORC panel upheld the rulings but varied the penalties as follows:
- i) The unexpired portion of the full suspension which we calculate to be two months and 26 days will be stayed;
- ii) In the event of a subsequent Class I or Class II or TCO2 violation that unexpired portion may be added to the penalty;
- iii) The provision for two years probation remains upon the same terms but the commencement date is changed to October 5th, 2009;
- iv) The fine is reduced to $1,500.00.
To view the ORC ruling regarding the Doig case, click here.
To read the ORC's reasons for decision in the Doig ruling, click here.
In the case of Saftic, the driver was appealing a ruling by ORC judges which stipulated a $500 fine and three-day driving suspension for his fourth offence for conduct contrary to former Rule 22.22 of the rules of standardbred racing. The reasons provided by the judges included: “Violation of ORC Rule 22.22: Mr. Saftic did use his whip in an indiscriminate manner.”
The ORC panel denied Saftic's appeal, but varied the penalty.
To read the ORC ruling in the Saftic case, click here.
(With files from the ORC)