The National Horseracing Authority of Southern Africa (the NHA) confirms the following reported Prohibited Substance findings from pre-race and out-of-competition specimen collections.
- The presence of Flunixin, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) classified as a Class 4 prohibited substance, was disclosed upon analysis of a specimen taken from LADY PENNY and AM STILL WINNING at the Fairview Racecourse on 23 September 2025, prior to the running of the 1st race.
The Trainer responsible, Mr J V A Strydom, elected to sign an Admission of Guilt for a contravention of Rule 73.2.3, and a fine for an amount of R25 000 was imposed. Both horses ran in Race 1 at Fairview Racecourse on the same day and finished 5th and 6th respectively. In accordance with Rule 72.3.2, both horses are disqualified from the race.
- The presence of Flunixin and Ketoprofen, both non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) classified as Class 4 prohibited substances, was disclosed upon analysis of specimens taken out of competition from AMAZON QUEEN and PORRIDGE BOY respectively, at the North Rand Training Centre on 23 September 2025.
The Trainer responsible, Mr M Pandaram, elected to sign an Admission of Guilt for a contravention of Rules 73.2.7 and 10.5.14, and a fine for an amount of R21 000 was imposed. Flunixin meglumine and Ketoprofen are commonly used in equine practice to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and control fever. These medications are commonly prescribed for conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries, colic, or recovery following surgery. While safe and effective when used under veterinary supervision, their administration is prohibited within certain withdrawal periods prior to racing and must be accurately recorded in the Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR). In determining the above penalties, careful consideration was given to the class of substance involved, the Trainers’ records of prior prohibited substance contraventions within the past five years, the concentration of the substance detected in the specimen, and whether there was adequate compliance with the Veterinary Treatment Register (VTR).
A D Hyde
Racing Control Executive 
Topic Author
