Mariner's Cross: tested positive for Propoxyphene after Wood Ditton win

  PICTURE: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)  

Al Zarooni to face BHA over two positive tests

GODOLPHIN trainer Mahmood Al Zarooni will face a BHA disciplinary panel on August 16 after two horses in his care tested positive for Propoxyphene, a prohibited substance, in urine samples taken after races earlier in the season.

The inquiry surrounds the Al Zarooni-trained Mariner's Cross, who tested positive for the painkiller following his win in the Wood Ditton at Newmarket on April 19, and Lyric Of Light, who tested positive for the same substance after finishing last in the Qipco 1,000 Guineas, also at Newmarket, on May 6.

The inquiry will consider if Al Zarooni acted in breach of rule (C)53 in respect of the finding of Propoxyphene in the urine samples and whether to take action in respect of the possible disqualification of both horses under rule (A)74.2 ground 3.

The current guideline penalties for anyone found in breach of rule(C)53 - positive sample in error/on veterinary advice - is a fine of anywhere between £750 and £10,000, with entry set at £1,000.