Horseracing: New Anti-Doping Rules Take Effect Today
Statement on Implementation of New National Horse Racing Anti-Doping Rules that Take Effect Monday 3/27
WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a move long advocated by both animal rights groups and concerned racing fans, new anti-doping rules, geared toward safeguarding racehorses, take effect today. The new rules that will be enforced by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority — created by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act signed into law in 2020 — are the first ever national standards the United States has seen in this area.
Implementation of the new standards ultimately hinged on approval for the program’s rules from a federal agency. The order may be found here: ORDER APPROVING THE ENFORCEMENT RULE PROPOSED BY THEHORSERACING INTEGRITY AND SAFETY AUTHORITY
The following is a statement by Marty Irby — outgoing executive director of Animal Wellness Action:
“We are elated to see the new anti-doping rules take effect on March 27, and applaud the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority for their tremendous work to ensure the successful implementation of the first federal horse protection law enacted in half a century, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act.
“Our work to secure the enactment of the new law alongside groups like The Jockey Club, Water Hay Oats Alliance, New York Racing Association, The Breeders’ Cup, and Churchill Downs has set American horse racing on the right track and we are pleased to see the welfare of the horses being made a top priority in the sport.”
Marty Irby is a former 8-time world champion equestrian who currently serves as executive director at Animal Wellness Action in Washington, D.C. Marty was honored in 2020 by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, II for his work to protect horses. Follow him on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @MartyIrby.